You may have come across news headlines reporting that a certain brand or product contains phthalates or that a company is working on eliminating phthalates from their products. From food packaging to children’s toys, phthalates can be found in many different items we use often. But what exactly are phthalates, and why are they so bad for you?

A new study from researchers at Children’s National Hospital showed that one out of every three kids with a food allergy has experienced food allergy-related bullying. Because children are often reluctant to open up about bullying, we asked study authors Linda Herbert, PhD, and Frances Cooke, BA, for some tips for talking to kids about food allergy-related bullying.