Research Organization Reports 1,4-Dioxane Exceeds Recommended Limits in some Cosmetic Products
May 2007 (07B-121)
The Environmental Working Group (EWG), a non-profit research organization, has released test results for the presence of 1,4-dioxane in certain children’s bath or adult personal care products. Three of the eighteen products tested exceeded the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) recommended limits of less than 10 ppm (parts per million).
About 1,4 Dioxane
1,4-dioxane is a manufacturing by-product, not an additive, and as such is not required to be listed on the label as an ingredient. It is a petrochemical that readily mixes with water, and is used primarily as a solvent in cosmetics, deodorants, and detergent preparations.
California’s Proposition 65 listed 1,4-dioxane as a carcinogen in 1988. Additionally, according to the FDA, 1,4-dioxane penetrates the skin, although much of it evaporates during usage. California’s Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment also notes that it may pose a possible inhalation or ingestion risk. The FDA has worked with cosmetics manufacturers to voluntarily reduce levels of 1,4-dioxane since 1979, and in 2000, recommended a limit of 10 ppm. A report done by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a part of the federal Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, states that some cosmetics, detergents, and shampoos may contain levels higher than recommended by FDA.
Consumer Groups Challenge “Safe” Limits
Although recommended limits have been set, controversy remains between consumer protection groups and manufacturers over the safety of even small amounts of 1,4-dioxane. Watchdog groups such as the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics (a coalition of eight national environmental and health advocacy organizations) are concerned that the limits do not address the effects of cumulative usage of multiple personal care products. They are campaigning for complete removal of 1,4-dioxane from products.
EWG researchers also found that 22% of cosmetics and personal care products may contain 1,4-dioxane, based on a computerized assessment of ingredients in 15,000 products. Cosmetics industry representatives say the amount of 1,4-dioxane in their products is safe, especially since shampoos and soaps are quickly washed off. John Bailey, science director of the Cosmetics, Toiletry and Fragrance Association (CTFA), maintains that consumers should not be concerned about the levels reported in this data.
The testing for the EWG report was done by an independent laboratory, who according to their website, analyzes 1,4-diozane routinely using modified versions of EPA methods 8260 and 8270, along with Gas Chromotography/Mass Spectrometry (GCMS) analysis.
How Bureau Veritas Consumer Products Services Can Assist You
Bureau Veritas is a leader in consumer products testing services, with experienced technical professionals. We can assist companies by testing for restricted substances in a variety of consumer products. We offer comprehensive services to address specific product and supply chain concerns including analytical testing, auditing, and inspections services.
For More Information: Please contact your client service representative or Elizabeth Hausler, Director, at 716-505-3582 or email: elizabeth.hausler@us.bureauveritas.com
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