September 14, 2023 – Conventional household cleansing and air freshening products can emit a whole lot of dangerous chemicals, but those with “green” properties which might be fragrance-free are potentially less harmful than their traditional counterparts, in line with a latest study.
Researchers tested 28 glass and multi-purpose cleansing products and two air freshener products for volatile organic compounds (VOCs). VOCs are man-made chemicals utilized in paints, medicines, refrigerants and other products, including cleansing products, that might be emitted into the air as gases, in line with the Environmental Protection Agency.
The studythat has been peer-reviewed, in line with CBS Newswas published within the magazine on Tuesday Chemosphere and conducted by the nonprofit activist organization Environmental Working Group.
Researchers found 530 VOCs within the products, of which 193 VOCs are classified as toxic by either the state of California or the European Chemicals Agency, the authors wrote. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been present in lower concentrations, lower quantities, and lower emission rates in “green” labeled and fragrance-free products.
The primary study didn't include a consumer-friendly publication of the person brands tested and the outcomes.
Concerns identified with among the products included potential inhalation toxicity, the potential of causing cancer, and potential toxicity to the reproductive system, similar to impairment of fertility or an unborn child.
“This study is a wake-up call for consumers, researchers and regulators to become more aware of the potential risks associated with the numerous chemicals that enter our indoor air,” lead writer Alexis Temkin, PhD, senior toxicologist on the Environmental Working Group, said in a Press release. “Our results highlight one way to reduce exposure to dangerous VOCs – by choosing products that are 'green', particularly those that are 'green' and 'fragrance-free'.”
The researchers defined “green” as products “advertised as healthier, non-toxic, or free of harmful chemicals, as well as products with third-party certification for safety or environmental features.”
The American Cleaning Institute, a trade group that represents cleansing product manufacturers, told CBS News that the factors used to judge the products within the study were “arbitrary” and that the term “green” was a marketing term, not a scientific one.
“The fact is that regulators in California – referenced in the study – have imposed restrictions on VOCs in most consumer products over the past three decades. “The industry has worked with the government and regulators for decades to minimize VOC concentrations and keep them below levels considered dangerous,” the trade group said in a statement to CBS News. “The proper use of cleaning products contributes to the public health and quality of life in homes, offices, schools, healthcare facilities, restaurants and in our communities every day. Anyone dealing with the coronavirus pandemic can certainly recognize this fact.”
The study authors wrote that “while the EWG has financial relationships with cleaning product manufacturers; These relationships had no direct or indirect impact on the study.”