Do you know what's in your soap? Triclosan may not help and may even hurt you.
Have you ever heard of triclosan? Probably not, but according to recent reports by the Associated Press, you probably should learn about it. Triclosan is a very common ingredient (chemical) found in many consumer products like toothpaste and antibacterial soap. Triclosan is also found in many children’s toys and food. The chemical is currently under review by the Food and Drug Administration, who are looking into rent studies that have shown triclosan to alter hormone levels in animals. Other studies show that triclosan can increase resistance of bacteria to antibiotics. For information on tracking warning and reports coming from the FDA, see our blog entry here.
Interestingly, the FDA states that there is no evidence that antibacterial soap with triclosan in it is any more effective at killing germs than without it. However, the FDA also states that there is no evidence that triclosan is dangerous.
Brian D. Cook, a partner with Bahe Cook Cantley & Jones PLC says that “as we have seen with the recent Toyota recalls, the federal government’s ability to act as a watchdog and protector of the public at this point is seriously compromised.” Cook warns that federal agencies like the FDA are often on the back end of investigations into products that can harm thousands or even millions of Americans. Moreover, simply because the bureaucracy of the FDA hasn’t officially determined that this product is dangerous doesn’t mean that it isn’t. Rather, the FDA’s involvement typically signals serious problems that have been ongoing for quite some time.
The experienced injury attorneys at Bahe Cook Cantley & Jones PLC, including Mr. Cook, would be happy to discuss the rights and options of those injured by dangerous products.
