|
This Week’s Tip: Avoid Triclosan
By Linda Mason Hunter
It’s a toxic
pesticide that may be in your toothpaste and your cutting
board, your child’s toys, in your bed, kitchen counters, and
clothing. It’s supposed to kill germs, but is really no
better than soap and water, and could harm your health and
the health of your family, particularly babies.
Triclosan is an antibacterial
agent used in more than 260 everyday products. A study by the Environmental
Working Group found no evidence that triclosan’s widespread use gives consumers
the increased germ-killing benefits the products promise. Still, it’s touted by
leading brands like Softsoap, Dial, and Bath & Body Works, and listed on the
labels of almost half of 259 hand soaps.
Lab studies link triclosan to
cancer, developmental defects, and liver toxicity. It tends to bioaccumulate,
becoming more concentrated in fatty tissues of humans and other animals. For
human health and environmental reasons, it has been targeted for removal from
some stores in Europe, and the American Medical Association recommends against
its use in the home.
Triclosan breaks down into very
toxic chemicals that harm fish and form a carcinogen when mixed with tap water
that has been treated with chlorine. Best advice: Avoid triclosan whenever
possible.
- Forgo antibacterial soap and other antibacterial products.
- Watch for triclosan (and triclocarban) in personal care products.
- Be skeptical of products that make claims such as “odor-fighting,” “kills
bacteria,” “fights germs,” “protects against mold,” or “keeps food fresher,
longer.”
Information gathered from
www.ewg.org.
|
PROJECT:.png){kind=logo}
Follow hunterink on twitter | 
Follow Linda Hunter on Facebook