Triclosan Use in Hand Soap

I have this news letter from Campaign for Safe Cosmetics this morning and i would like to share it with you all.

People migh not realise the dangers until notice.

Can Walmart Help Us Stop Triclosan Use in Hand Soap?

Ask Walmart to wash its hands of triclosan!

Perhaps you've seen (or yourself own) an antibacterial product - a facewash, deodorant or even a keychain? Have you ever wondered about the effectiveness of these products, or their impact on people, plants and animals?
Two years ago, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics supporters sent Walmart thousands of e-mails asking the retail giant to help stem the demand for products that contain triclosan, an antimicrobial chemical common in personal care products and cleaning products. One study found triclosan in an astounding 76 percent of liquid soaps on the market.
Well, it's time for spring cleaning, and time to remind Walmart that it *still* has the mega-retailer power to address hazardous chemicals in consumer products.

Why are we concerned about triclosan?

(1) It's bad for health: Research shows that triclosan disrupts hormones. Exposure to hormone-disruptors can lead to early puberty, serious reproductive issues and breast cancer.
(2) It's in our bodies, in soil and in wildlife: Like so many other chemicals in household items, triclosan doesn't just stay in the products its used in: it's been found in our bodies and in the breast milk of women using personal care products that contain the chemical. Triclosan has also been found in water, dolphins, earthworms and frogs.
(3) It isn't more effective than regular soap, but it could lead to bacterial resistance: The CDC found no evidence that antibacterial soap is more beneficial than good old soap and water in reducing bacteria or the rate of disease. Scientists are concerned, however, that widespread use may lead to triclosan-resistant bacteria.
(4) Pesticides shouldn't be on our skin or in our mouths: Triclosan is registered as a pesticide at the EPA, but it's probably in your hand soap and might be in your toothpaste because cosmetics companies aren't barred by the FDA from using ingredients linked to harm or that have never been assessed for adverse health effects.

-Mia, Stacy, Lisa, Marisa and the Campaign Safe Cosmetics Team
And please check this out to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Triclosan

Alternatives

A comprehensive analysis from the University of Michigan School of Public Health indicated that plain soaps are just as effective as consumer-grade antibacterial soaps with triclosan in preventing illness and removing bacteria from the hands.

Non-organic antibiotics and biocides are effective alternatives to triclosan, such as silver and copper ions and nanoparticles.

The herbs thyme, oregano, and other essential plant oils have been synthesized into a broadspectrum antimicrobial which is purported to work as well as alcohol-based sanitizers.