European Study Finds Toxins in Consumer Products

A study conducted by the British environmental group, ClientEarth, tested various consumer products for five endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs), or hormone-altering chemicals that have been linked with cancer, reproductive problems, and other negative health consequences. Our sister organization, Silent Spring Institute, did a similar product-testing study in 2012 looking for many of the same chemicals (and finding them) in consumer products from personal care products to shower curtains to cat litter.


Both studies tested for the following EDCs:

Bisphenol A (BPA) – found in plastics and recently banned from baby bottles and sippy cups in the state of Massachusetts.

Phthalates – used in plastics and as a fragrance compound in personal care products

Flame retardants – found in the foam of upholstered furniture, electronics and infant pajamas

Triclosan – an antibacterial used in personal care products like toothpaste, soap, and cleaning products.

Octyl Methoxycinnamate (OMC) – used in sunscreens and lip balms

 

Media coverage of the EU study:

Calls to Ban Dangerous Chemicals The Independent

 

Media coverage of Silent Spring Institute study:

Are Hidden Dangers Lurking in Your Cleaning Products? WPBF 25

Bisphenol A and Other Endocrine Disruptors Found in Common Household Products The Huffington Post

Study Highlights Hidden Dangers in Everyday Products Forbes