Heavy metals in hygiene products: Let's keep an eye on their safety
Periodic tampons and other hygiene products can contain traces of heavy metals such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and antimony. These contaminations are often due to raw materials or manufacturing processes. These substances are of concern because of their potential health effects, particularly as endocrine disruptors. They can cause hormonal imbalances and present risks of long-term toxicity. Regulations and safety tests aim to minimize these risks by setting strict limits for the presence of heavy metals in these products.
Recent regulations and studies
- France: Publication of a list of endocrine disruptors1
- Europe: Monitoring under REACH and cosmetics regulation (EC) N°1223/20092
- Scientific publication: "Tampons as a source of exposure to metal(loid)s "3
It's crucial to maintain vigilance over all hygiene products, including those for babies, feminine hygiene, and incontinence, to ensure that they are free from harmful heavy metals.
Eurofins: A trusted partner
For almost 10 years, Eurofins has been offering full package analyses, including:
- Routine analysis of 14 heavy metals in the mass of products or their raw materials;
- And more recently, the analysis of heavy metals after migration on urine simulant (EDANA method).
If you have any questions or requests, our team of experts is at your disposal. We are here to support you and ensure the safety of your hygiene products.
Contact our team of experts today
1Published on 12/10/2023, including lead, cadmium, mercury and arsenic. See the full list here
2Ban on certain metals such as lead and mercury, while others are subject to restrictions.
3Elsevier's publication of 22/06/2024 highlights the risks associated with these products. Discover the full study here
