Potential Health Hazards of Scented Products

Widely used fragranced products, such as air fresheners, laundry supplies, personal care products, and cleaners, emit many chemicals that are not listed on the label, including some that are classified as toxic. Anne Steinemann, from the University of Washington (Washington, USA), and colleagues revealed that 25 commonly used scented products emit an average of 17 chemicals each. Of the 133 different chemicals detected, nearly a quarter are classified as toxic or hazardous under at least one federal law. Only one emitted compound was listed on a product label, and only two were publicly disclosed anywhere. Explaining that: “While virtually none of the chemicals identified were listed, this nonetheless accords with U.S. regulations, which do not require disclosure of all ingredients in a consumer product, or of any ingredients in a mixture called ‘fragrance,’”, the researchers urge that:”The analysis focused on compounds emitted and listed, rather than exposures and effects, it makes no claims regarding possible risks from product use. Results of this study contribute to understanding emissions from common products, and their links with labeling and legislation.”