Tell FDA to Remove Triclosan from Consumer Products

For over 30 years, triclosan, the antibacterial pesticide found in numerous hand soaps, toothpastes, and other cosmetics, has flown under the radar. But due to public pressure, many manufacturers have been washing their hands of triclosan. Now after years of inaction, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is going to require data to support triclosan?s claims of being ?safe and effective.? The time is now to let the agency know that triclosan is NOT safe or effective for human and environmental health. Studies show that triclosan can interfere with thyroid and estrogen hormones, and may promote the progression of cancer cells. The CDC has found that 75% of the U.S. population contain triclosan in their bodies, even in breast milk, and at levels that are rising. Triclosan is an endocrine disruptor and has been shown to affect male and female reproductive hormones and possibly fetal development. A recent study also linked triclosan to the growth of breast cancer cells. Additionally, triclosan contaminates waterways, aquatic wildlife, and possibly even drinking water. Given the mounting scientific evidence, the FDA must not continue to lag. FDA is accepting public comments on triclosan until June 16, 2014. ??Click here to tell FDA that triclosan is not safe or effective and it should be removed from consumer products.

Act Now to Defend Healthy School Lunches for Kids!

The House of Representatives could vote soon to either gut or protect new standards that have improved school lunches. Union of Concerned Scientists analysis has shown that increasing our consumption of fruits and vegetables could prevent thousands of deaths and billions of dollars in health care costs each year from diet-related chronic disease. Today, Americans of all ages are not eating nearly enough of these healthy foods. Congress recently improved federally funded school lunches by requiring at least half a cup of fruits and vegetables with every meal, and these standards were a positive first step. We can’t go back on the gains we have made to improve kids’ diets. Urge your member of Congress to stop the attack on healthy school lunch standards!