BERLIN, GERMANY — Concerned about public health, German health officials are offering to pay consumers who turn in old vibrators.For every vibrator containing the controversial plastic-enhancer known as phthalates (or phthalate esters), the government will pay £40 (about $56 U.S.). According to some studies, phthalates can mimic human hormones and are prone to leaking into human tissues on contact.

Esters of phthalic acid primarily are used to soften polyvinyl chloride. They were produced first in the 1920s and found wide acceptance in the 1950s when PVC was introduced. Since then, the chemical substance has been used to manufacture everything from soft plastic fishing lures, nail polish, adhesives, caulk and paint pigments to sex toys made of so-called “jelly rubber.”

Products containing phthalates are being phased out in the U.S. and the European Union because studies have indicated a correlation between high concentrations of phthalates in the human body and disruption of hormone levels as well as birth defects.

“These old plastics are now banned in children’s toys and surgical instruments,” a German health spokesman said. “Hopefully this is a deal that will leave everyone smiling.”