What is triclosan and where is it commonly found. How safe is triclosan for human use. Are there any proven benefits of triclosan in consumer products. How can consumers identify products containing triclosan. What actions is the FDA taking to evaluate triclosan safety.

Understanding Triclosan: An Antibacterial Agent in Consumer Products

Triclosan is an antibacterial and antifungal agent that has been widely used in various consumer products for decades. Its primary purpose is to reduce or prevent bacterial contamination, making it a popular ingredient in many household items. However, recent concerns about its safety and effectiveness have led to increased scrutiny and regulatory actions.

Common Products Containing Triclosan

• Antibacterial soaps and body washes
• Toothpastes
• Cosmetics
• Clothing with antimicrobial properties
• Kitchenware
• Furniture
• Toys

While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates triclosan in over-the-counter drugs and cosmetics, its presence in other consumer goods falls outside the agency’s jurisdiction.

The Safety Concerns Surrounding Triclosan Usage

The widespread use of triclosan has raised several safety concerns among researchers and health professionals. These concerns stem from various studies conducted on animals and potential implications for human health.

Potential Health Risks Associated with Triclosan

• Endocrine disruption: Short-term animal studies have shown that high doses of triclosan may affect thyroid hormone levels.
• Antibiotic resistance: Some research suggests that triclosan exposure might contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
• Skin cancer: Ongoing studies are investigating the potential link between long-term triclosan exposure and skin cancer in animals.
• Chemical breakdown: Research is being conducted on the potential breakdown of triclosan into other chemicals when exposed to UV rays on human skin.

Is triclosan safe for long-term use in consumer products. The current scientific consensus is that more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of triclosan on human health. While some studies have raised concerns, the evidence is not yet conclusive, and regulatory bodies continue to monitor and evaluate the available data.

Evaluating the Benefits of Triclosan in Consumer Products

Despite its widespread use, the benefits of triclosan in many consumer products have been called into question. The FDA has reviewed evidence for triclosan’s effectiveness in various applications, with mixed results.

Proven Benefits of Triclosan

Has triclosan been proven effective in any consumer products. Yes, there is evidence supporting the benefits of triclosan in at least one product. In 1997, the FDA reviewed extensive data on Colgate Total toothpaste, which contains triclosan. The evidence demonstrated that triclosan in this specific product was effective in preventing gingivitis, a form of gum disease.

Lack of Evidence in Other Products

For many other products, particularly over-the-counter (OTC) consumer antiseptic products, the FDA has not received sufficient evidence to support the benefits of triclosan. Notably, there is no clear evidence that triclosan in OTC consumer antibacterial soaps and body washes provides any advantage over washing with regular soap and water.

Regulatory Actions and FDA Stance on Triclosan

In response to the ongoing concerns and lack of evidence for triclosan’s effectiveness in many products, the FDA has taken several regulatory actions.

Key FDA Decisions Regarding Triclosan

1. December 2017 Final Rule: The FDA issued a final rule on certain OTC health-care antiseptic products. This rule prohibits companies from using triclosan and 23 other active ingredients in these products without premarket review due to insufficient safety and effectiveness data.
2. Hand Sanitizer Review: The FDA has issued a final rule on OTC hand sanitizers and continues to review the three active ingredients commonly used in these products.
3. Ongoing Monitoring: The agency continues to review safety and effectiveness data on triclosan in OTC antiseptic rulemakings and monitor the scientific literature for new information.

What steps is the FDA taking to ensure consumer safety regarding triclosan. The FDA is actively reviewing available data, issuing regulations to limit the use of triclosan in certain products, and continuing to monitor scientific literature for new information on triclosan’s safety and effectiveness.

Identifying Triclosan in Consumer Products

Given the concerns surrounding triclosan, many consumers may wish to avoid products containing this ingredient. Fortunately, there are straightforward ways to identify whether a product contains triclosan.

How to Check for Triclosan in Different Product Types

• OTC Drugs (including antibacterial soaps, body washes, and fluoride toothpastes): Check the Drug Facts box on the label. If triclosan is present, it should be listed as an ingredient.
• Cosmetics: Review the ingredient list on the product label. Triclosan, if present, should be included in this list.

How can consumers easily identify products containing triclosan. The most reliable method is to carefully read product labels, focusing on the Drug Facts box for OTC drugs and the ingredient list for cosmetics. When in doubt, consumers can also contact manufacturers directly for more information about product formulations.

Alternatives to Triclosan-Containing Products

As concerns about triclosan have grown, many manufacturers have begun reformulating their products to exclude this ingredient. Consumers looking to avoid triclosan have several alternatives available.

Effective Alternatives to Triclosan-Based Products

• Regular soap and water: For hand washing and general hygiene, the CDC recommends using plain soap and water as an effective method to reduce the spread of germs.
• Alcohol-based hand sanitizers: When soap and water are not available, alcohol-based hand sanitizers (containing at least 60% alcohol) are recommended as an effective alternative.
• Natural antimicrobial ingredients: Some products use natural ingredients with antimicrobial properties, such as tea tree oil or thyme oil, as alternatives to synthetic antibacterial agents.
• Fluoride toothpastes without triclosan: Many effective fluoride toothpastes are available that do not contain triclosan.

What options do consumers have if they wish to avoid triclosan. There are numerous effective alternatives available, ranging from simple soap and water for hand washing to alcohol-based sanitizers and products using natural antimicrobial ingredients. Consumers can easily find these alternatives in most retail stores and online marketplaces.

The Global Perspective on Triclosan Regulation

The debate surrounding triclosan is not limited to the United States. Various countries and regions around the world have taken different approaches to regulating this controversial ingredient.

International Regulatory Actions on Triclosan

• European Union: The EU has banned triclosan in several product categories, including body care products and hand disinfectants.
• Canada: Health Canada has restricted the concentration of triclosan in mouthwashes and other personal care products.
• Australia: The Australian government has imposed restrictions on triclosan in cosmetic and personal care products.
• Japan: The Japanese government has established limits on triclosan content in various consumer products.

How do international regulations on triclosan compare to those in the United States. While approaches vary, many countries have implemented stricter regulations on triclosan use compared to the U.S., with some nations outright banning the ingredient in certain product categories. These differing approaches reflect the ongoing global debate about the safety and necessity of triclosan in consumer products.

The Future of Triclosan: Research and Potential Developments

As concerns about triclosan continue to grow, research into its effects and potential alternatives is ongoing. This research may shape future regulations and consumer product formulations.

Current Areas of Triclosan Research

• Long-term health effects: Researchers are conducting studies to better understand the potential long-term impacts of triclosan exposure on human health.
• Environmental impact: Studies are examining how triclosan affects aquatic ecosystems and whether it contributes to environmental pollution.
• Antibiotic resistance: Further research is being conducted to determine if triclosan contributes to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
• Alternative antimicrobial agents: Scientists are exploring new, potentially safer antimicrobial ingredients that could replace triclosan in consumer products.

What developments can we expect in the future regarding triclosan use and regulation. As research progresses, we may see further restrictions on triclosan use, the development of new antimicrobial alternatives, and potentially more comprehensive bans in certain product categories. Consumers can expect to see continued changes in product formulations as manufacturers respond to both regulatory pressures and changing consumer preferences.

Consumer Awareness and Informed Choices

As the debate around triclosan continues, consumer awareness plays a crucial role in driving market trends and regulatory decisions. Being informed about the presence of triclosan in products and its potential effects can help consumers make choices aligned with their health and environmental concerns.

Tips for Making Informed Choices About Triclosan-Containing Products

1. Read labels carefully: Always check ingredient lists and Drug Facts boxes for the presence of triclosan.
2. Stay informed: Keep up with the latest research and regulatory decisions regarding triclosan.
3. Consider alternatives: Explore triclosan-free options for antibacterial products when possible.
4. Prioritize hygiene basics: Remember that proper hand washing with regular soap and water is often sufficient for everyday hygiene.
5. Consult healthcare professionals: If you have concerns about triclosan exposure, discuss them with your doctor or a dermatologist.

How can consumers stay informed about triclosan and make appropriate choices. By regularly checking product labels, staying updated on current research and regulations, and considering alternative products, consumers can make informed decisions about their exposure to triclosan. It’s important to balance the potential risks and benefits of triclosan-containing products based on individual needs and concerns.

As research continues and regulations evolve, the landscape of triclosan use in consumer products is likely to change. By staying informed and making conscious choices, consumers can play an active role in shaping the future of antimicrobial product formulations and their impact on both human health and the environment.

5 Things to Know About Triclosan

Does the product contain triclosan? On over-the-counter drug products, read the ingredients on the Drug Facts label. On cosmetics, read the list of ingredients.

What Is Triclosan?

Triclosan is an ingredient added to many consumer products intended to reduce or prevent bacterial contamination. It is added to some antibacterial soaps and body washes, toothpastes, and some cosmetics—products regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It also can be found in clothing, kitchenware, furniture, and toys—products not regulated by the FDA.

How Safe Is Triclosan?

Some short-term animal studies have shown that exposure to high doses of triclosan is associated with a decrease in the levels of some thyroid hormones. But we don’t know the significance of those findings to human health. Other studies have raised the possibility that exposure to triclosan contributes to making bacteria resistant to antibiotics. At this time, we don’t have enough information available to assess the level of risk that triclosan poses for the development of antibiotic resistance.

There are other ongoing studies that involve the safety of triclosan. One is a study investigating the potential of developing skin cancer after a long-term exposure to triclosan in animals. Another is a study on the potential breakdown of triclosan to other chemicals on human skin after exposure to triclosan to ultraviolet (UV) rays. At this time, neither study has been completed.

Are There Benefits of Triclosan?

For some consumer products, there is evidence that triclosan provides a benefit. In 1997, FDA reviewed extensive effectiveness data on triclosan in Colgate Total toothpaste. The evidence showed that triclosan in that product was effective in preventing gingivitis.

For other products, such as over-the-counter (OTC) consumer antiseptic products, FDA has not received evidence that triclosan provides a benefit to human health. At this time, FDA doesn’t have evidence that triclosan in OTC consumer antibacterial soaps and body washes provides any benefit over washing with regular soap and water.

In December 2017, the FDA issued a final rule regarding certain OTC health-care antiseptic products. As a result, companies will not be able to use triclosan or 23 other active ingredients in these products without premarket review due to insufficient data regarding their safety and effectiveness. The FDA recently issued a final rule on OTC hand sanitizers and will continue to review the three active ingredients commonly used in hand sanitizers.

How Can I Tell if There Is Triclosan in a Product?

Antibacterial soaps and body washes, and fluoride toothpastes are considered OTC drugs. If an OTC drug contains triclosan, it should be listed as an ingredient on the label, in the Drug Facts box. If a cosmetic contains triclosan, it should be included in the ingredient list on the product label.

What Is FDA Doing to Evaluate the Safety of Triclosan?

FDA has been reviewing safety and effectiveness data on triclosan in the agency’s OTC antiseptic rulemakings. FDA will also continue to monitor and follow the scientific literature available for the safety and effectiveness of triclosan.

For more information on consumer antiseptic washes, see the final rule.

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Products Containing Triclosan — Beyond Pesticides

DISCLAIMER: Due to public pressure, many major manufacturers have quietly begun reformulating their products without triclosan. Product formulations may change without notice. Below is a small sampling of products formulated with, or used to be formulated with triclosan and is not to be considered a comprehensive list. Remember to always refer to product labels to determine whether triclosan is contained in your product. Some retail outlets may still carry older formulations. Look out for labels that state: “antimicrobial protection.” Some antibacterial soaps may use triclosan’s cousin, triclocarban, in place of triclosan.

Soap: Dial® Liquid handsoap and bodywash; Tea Tree Therapy™ Liquid Soap; Clearasil® Daily Face Wash; Dermalogica® Skin Purifying Wipes; DermaKleen™ Antibacterial Lotion Soap; CVS Antibacterial Soap, Ajax Antibacterial Dishsoap, Kimcare Antibacterial Clear Soap, Bath and Body Works Antibacterial Hand Soaps, Gels and Foaming Sanitizers.

Dental Care: Colgate Total®; Breeze™ Daily Mouthwash; Reach® Antibacterial Toothbrush

Cosmetics: Garden Botanika® Powder Foundation; Mavala Lip Base; Movate® Skin Litening Cream HQ; Paul Mitchell Detangler Comb, Revlon ColorStay LipSHINE Lipcolor Plus Gloss, Babor Volume Mascara, Phytomer Perfect Visage Gentle Cleansing Milk, Phytomer Hydracontinue Instant Moisture Cream, Bath and Body Works Antibacterial Moisturizing Lotions.

Deodorant: Arm and Hammer® Essentials Natural Deodorant; Queen Helene® Tea Trea Oil Deodorant and Aloe Deodorant; DeCleor Deodorant Stick; Epoch® Deodorant with Citrisomes.

First Aid: SyDERMA® Skin Protectant plus First Aid Antiseptic; Healwell Plantar Fasciitis Night Splint; Solarcaine® First Aid Medicated Spray; Nexcare™ First Aid, Skin Crack Care; : Universal Cervical Collar with Microban.

Kitchenware: Farberware® Microban Cutting Boards; Franklin Machine Products FMP Ice Cream Scoop SZ 20 Microban; Hobart Semi-Automatic Slicer; Chix® Food Service Wipes with Microban; Compact Web Foot® Wet Mop Heads.

Other Personal Care Products: Murad Acne Complex® Kit, ®; Diabet-x™ Cream; Scunci Microban Comb, Sportslick Pocket Slick.

Clothes: Biofresh® socks, undergarments, tops and bottoms.

Office and School Products: Ticonderoga® Pencils with Microban Protection, Avery® Touchgaurd View Binders, C-line® products, Clauss® cutting instruments, Costco® products, Sharp® printing calculators. Westcott® scissors

Other: Bionare® Cool Mist Humidifier; Deciguard AB® Antimicrobial Ear Plugs; Bauer® Re-Akt hockey helmet and 7500 hockey helment; Miller Paint Acro Pure Interior Paint; Holmes Foot Buddy™ HMh220U Antimicrobial Foot Buddy Foot Warmer, Blue Mountain Wall Coverings, California Paints®, Davis Paint® Perfection, Hirschfield’s Paint®,O’Leary Paint®, EHC AMRail Escalator Handrails, Dupont™ Air Filters, Winix Dehumidifiers, J Cloth® towels, select Quickie cleaning products, Kimberly Clark® WYPALL X80 Towels, Canopy® kitchen towels, ALUF Plastics®, BioEars earplugs, Petmate® LeBistro feeders and waterers, Infantino cart covers and baby carriers, Oreck XL®, Bissell Healthy Home Vacuum™, NuTone® Central Vacuum systems, Rival® Seal-A-Meal® Vacuum Food Sealer, CleenFreek SportsHygiene Yoga Mat, Resilite Sports Products, Rubbermaid® Coolers, Stufitts sports gear, Venture Products® fitness mats, Custom Building Products, DAP®Kwik Seal Plus®, Laticrete, Niasa Biquichamp® mortar grout and sealant, ProAdvanced Products.

For more information on products containing Microban, the antibacterial product containing triclosan go to their webpage.

JMS Triclosept – Liquid hand sanitizer with triclosan

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• JMS Triclosept – Liquid hand sanitizer with triclosan

	Conforms to WHO recommendations. Kills the full spectrum of bacteria, viruses and fungi in 30 seconds
	Contains up to 70% isopropyl alcohol
	HAND SAFE. Contains tea tree oil, coconut oil and glycerin to nourish the skin and protect it from excessive drying
	Does not require rinsing, does not leave a sticky feeling. Suitable for daily use
	Wholesale prices and flexible delivery terms
	Contract manufacturing

Purpose

Neutral concentrated disinfectant (antiseptic) based on isopropyl alcohol and triclosan. Contains glycerin, coconut oil and tea tree oil to nourish hand skin and protect it from drying out.

Used for washing and antiseptic treatment of the skin of the hands of working personnel, for filling sanitary checkpoints, for processing sanitary rugs, soft toys, upholstered and hard furniture, floors and equipment. The product kills the entire spectrum of microbes and bacteria, eliminates strong odors.

Recommended for use in medical, children’s institutions, food industry (dairy, meat, fish processing, etc. ), public catering and at home.

Features

How to use

Ready to use. In medical institutions, it is used for washing and antibacterial treatment of hands, as well as disinfection of various surfaces and objects. It is refilled into dispensers, sanitary checkpoints, applied to disinfection barrier mats.

The product is concentrated, when used outside of medicine, if desired, it can be diluted with water at the rate of 1 part of the product to 3 parts of water.

For hand sanitizer, apply to clean hands, spread evenly and rub thoroughly for 2-3 minutes, including between fingers. If desired, you can rinse with water, but the product is safe for the skin of the hands.

When disinfecting surfaces and objects with a sprayer, evenly apply a thin layer of the agent over the object to be treated (slippers, upholstered and hard furniture, floors, equipment, etc.), if desired, the agent can be washed off with water after 5-10 minutes.

Remains effective in cold water. Does not dry out hands, suitable for daily use.

Precautions

Do not ingest! Avoid contact with eyes! Keep away from children! Use only as directed! Do not mix with other products! May ignite, keep away from fire and excessive heat!

In case of contact with eyes and mucous membranes, rinse with plenty of water. Seek medical attention if necessary.

TU9144-001-98205538-2006 with amendment 1

Storage

-5°C to +40°C in dry warehouses, out of direct sunlight.

Warranty period of storage – 36 months in a closed original container. After defrosting, it retains its properties. When stratified, the solution must be mixed before use. After the expiration date, dispose of as household waste.

Composition

Mild surfactant composition (c-surfactant 2-10%, n-surfactant <5%), isopropyl alcohol 50-70%, triclosan, tea tree oil, glycerin, coconut oil, antibacterial complex, fragrance, water.

ZhMS “Triclobact”.

Liquid hand soap with triclosan 500ml (with dispenser)

• Description

Purpose:

Neutral foam antibacterial toilet soap with a disinfectant effect. Contains mild surfactants, triclosan, allantoin glycerin, coconut oil, special antiseptic and moisturizing additives that moisturize and protect the skin of the hands from drying out, kill bacteria, give hands a clean and fresh scent. Suitable for daily washing of hands contaminated with oil and fat and protein food residues, removes combined dirt, eliminates pungent odors.

Recommended for use in medical, children’s institutions, food industry (dairy, meat, fish processing, etc.), public catering and at home.

Features:

Appearance	Colored gel liquid
Density, kg/m3(20°С)	900-1150
pH -100% solution (20°C)	4. 5-7.5
pH -1% solution (20°C) in distilled water	3.5-6.0
Surfactants in %, not less than	12

Application:

Attention! Shake well before use!

Used for washing and antibacterial treatment of hands in finished form, refilled into dispensers. Apply a small amount of soap to wet hands, spread evenly until foam forms. Wash off with warm water.

The agent removes any protein, fat and combined contamination, eliminates strong odors, kills bacteria and fungi. Does not dry hands, effective in cold water, suitable for daily use.

Precautions:

Do not ingest! Use only as directed! Do not mix with other products! Avoid contact with eyes! Keep away from children! At hit of means on a mucous membrane immediately to wash out water. Seek medical attention if necessary.

Storage:

From -5° C to +40° C in dry warehouses, protected from direct sunlight.