The European Union establishes new rules for cosmetics that affect hormones
The European Commission published a new strategy document, which defines the position of the European Union in respect of chemicals that Deplete the endocrine system of a person.
The results of several research programmes have shown that the chemicals found in a variety of consumer products, including cosmetics and personal care products, are associated with health problems including infertility, cancer and obesity.
The European organisation of consumers (BEUC) have long stated the need to adopt a new strategy, because the former, which entered into force in 1999, has lost its relevance in the light of new research.
It should be noted that special attention in the study of the chemical substances that affect hormones, was paid to the cosmetics, personal care products, toys and food packaging. The results showed that the damage caused by the goods that affect hormones, amounted to around € 163 billion.
The new strategy the European Commission aims to improve the fragmented set of rules governing the use of chemical ingredients that affect hormones in consumer products and to identify existing gaps in the strategy to improve the protection of consumers.
According to a statement from BEUC, the organization hopes that the new strategy will toughen requirements for manufacturers, and eliminate a number of legal loopholes, which are used for the legal production of hazardous to health products.
“Chemical substances harmful to the hormonal system, pose a serious threat to the health of present and future generations. Too much time has been wasted arguing about the definitions and methods of testing. This strategy is a real chance to solve the problem, – said Monique Goyens, Director General of BEUC. – It would be irresponsible to take an expectant attitude. Gaps in the protection of consumers is obvious: the EU laws on cosmetics and toys have no influence on the use of such substances, while for many groups of goods, such as textiles or hygiene products, generally there are no rules”.
