A new study raises concerns about the safety of tampons, one of the world’s most widely used menstrual products. Researchers at UC Berkeley, in a groundbreaking investigation, found traces of toxic metals in various tampon brands.
This is the first-ever study to measure heavy metal content in tampons, according to a press release from UC Berkeley. The research team, which also included scientists from Columbia University, analyzed 14 different tampon brands (brand names were not disclosed) and detected 16 different chemicals. These included concerning heavy metals like arsenic, lead, cadmium, and mercury.
The levels of these metals varied, but none of the categories tested – organic or non-organic, US or European brands – were consistently lower in all metals. For example, organic tampons had less lead but more arsenic than non-organic ones.
The study suggests several potential sources for these contaminants. During growth, cotton for tampons might absorb metals from the environment. Processing near industrial sites could also pollute the cotton. Even more concerning, researchers believe manufacturers might intentionally add some metals as whiteners, antibacterials, or coloring agents.
While the presence of these chemicals is alarming, the researchers urge caution against panic. However, it highlights a crucial point – current regulations in the US and Europe don’t require chemical testing of tampons.
The onus falls on manufacturers to ensure the safety of their products. This study underscores the need for stricter regulations and increased transparency regarding tampon ingredients.
Reference- TIME magazine, UC Berkeley press release, new paper in Environment International, Futurism