Corporations spend untold millions on complex marketing campaigns, targeting the subconscious primal emotions of you and your children so you feel compelled to buy their products. But it takes a state law to pry out the more dangerous information about these same products.
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| Image: Real Farmacy |
The Washington Toxics Coalition and Safer States compiled a report detailing the toxic chemicals used in children’s products, based on information provided by manufacturers In compliance with Washington State’s “Children’s Safe Products Act of 2008.” Reporting requirements began in 2012, giving us information that was previously unavailable to the public.
Washington State developed a list of 66 “Chemicals of High Concern to Children.” 41 of these chemicals were reported in more than 5,000 products. Retailers include Walmart, Gap, Gymboree, H & M, J. C. Penney, and Claire’s.
A variety of chemicals linked to cancer, hormone disruption and reproductive problems were reported such as phthalates and solvents, as well as toxic metals like cadmium and mercury. Products containing these chemicals include clothing, footwear, toys, games, jewelry, accessories, baby products, furniture, bedding, arts and crafts supplies and personal care products. SEE THE FULL REPORT HERE
All of this begs the question: Why are retailers still putting known toxic chemicals in children’s products? Children are more susceptible to the effects of toxins. With the billions in profits and millions spent on other avenues like marketing, isn’t it possible to make a toy with no toxic chemicals or metals?
Supposed “safe standards” set by federal regulators hardly ease the concerns of parents who are familiar with the corruption in agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA didn’t even ban bisphenol A (BPA) in baby bottles until the industry suggested it after already abandoning its use.
“Safe standards” applied to one particular item do not account for accumulation in the body over time or toxic effects that may arise when combined with other chemical exposures.
For example, research has shown that phthalates build up in the body. Several European countries have banned the use of phthalates in children’s products based on sound science. Yet U.S. manufacturers pretend this body of evidence does not exist and continue putting our kids’ health in jeopardy.
There is a campaign called Mind the Store, spearheaded by Safer Chemicals, Healthy Families, that urges the top ten retailers to eliminate the use of toxic chemicals in consumer products. Support them and support a healthier future.
Source: realfarmacy.com
Justin Gardener, REALfarmacy.com
