From The Independent:
Softgel capsules — the smooth, easy-to-swallow form of many medications and supplements — are increasingly popular for delivering everything from vitamins to omega-3s. These capsules, made of a liquid centre inside a soft, flexible shell, offer convenience and effectiveness. But they’ve also come under growing scrutiny for one surprising reason: plasticisers.
To make the capsule shell soft and pliable, manufacturers often use plasticisers – chemicals called phthalates. While these help with flexibility and durability, they’re also linked to a range of health concerns. Phthalates are known as endocrine disruptors – substances that can interfere with hormone systems. Studies, particularly in animals, suggest they can affect reproductive development, fertility and hormone balance.