The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has opened an investigation into nine sanitary pad and panty liner suppliers, after a University of the Free State study found endocrine-disrupting chemicals in several products that are available countrywide, reports eNCA.
Manufacturers have already responded that the levels of chemicals found fall within international regulatory frameworks, and do not pose a health risk – and have also expressed concern over the methodology of the study, which suggested the products contained endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) like parabens, phthalates and bisphenols (including BPA), and are linked to complications like hormonal imbalance, infertility, endometriosis and cancer.
The tested products included well-known brands like Kotex, Stay Free, Lil-lets, Libresse, Always and Comfitex, reports News24.
As of yet, the NCC hasn’t recalled any products, but in a statement on Tuesday said it was investigating all of the suppliers whose products were tested in the study:
The study tested 23 products, and emphasised that it did not test all products on the market.
The NCC will also be requiring the suppliers to conduct their own tests or provide the latest laboratory results that tested for EDCs.
Acting NCC Commissioner Hardin Ratshisusu said: “The findings of the study raise serious concerns … the affected suppliers will be afforded an opportunity to respond to the concerns as part of the investigation before the NCC makes a determination.”
The study, conducted for a doctoral dissertation by Janine Blignaut at the UFS departments of chemistry, microbiology and biochemistry at UFS, was published in the journal Science of the Total Environment, showing that each of the 23 menstrual pads and panty liners tested contains at least two chemicals that can disrupt the endocrine system.
Professor Deon Visser, Head of the Chemistry department, said that repeated exposure to the chemicals can accumulate in the body.
“The average woman will menstruate 450 times in her lifetime. Sanitary products come into contact with mucous membranes, which absorb chemicals more easily than skin elsewhere on the body.”
The researchers are now also investigating baby nappies because their manufacturing process is similar.
The NCC is assessing whether the suppliers comply with Sections 55 and 24 of the Consumer Protection Act, which require goods to be safe and fit for purpose.
The commission says it will decide on possible recalls once the assessment is complete.
See more from MedicalBrief archives:
Harmful chemicals found in SA sanitary products – UFS study
Toxic metals, including lead, found in tampons – US study