They would not be in those products.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced plans to conduct an independent review regarding potential health risks posed by toxic metals found in tampons. This decision follows a July 2024 study from the University of California, Berkeley, which detected traces of lead and other metals in tampons from 14 different brands sold in the U.S., U.K., and Greece. Published in the journal Environmental International, the study raised concerns about the safety of these products.
The FDA acknowledged these concerns, emphasizing that tampons are generally tested for safety before hitting the market. However, in response to the Berkeley study, the agency is launching its own investigation to determine whether metals in tampons can be released, absorbed by the vaginal lining, or enter the bloodstream during use. The review will involve testing under conditions that simulate normal tampon use, which the original study did not address. The FDA aims to perform a thorough risk assessment of any metal exposure from tampons, though no specific timeline has been set for the study’s completion.
The Berkeley study, led by postdoctoral researcher Jenni Shearston, analyzed 16 different metals, including lead, arsenic, and cadmium, across various tampon brands. Metals were found in all products, with one sample containing all 16. Organic tampons were found to have lower levels of lead but higher amounts of arsenic than non-organic products. Notably, tampons sold in the U.S. had higher concentrations of lead compared to those in Europe. Researchers called for stricter regulations and testing of metals in tampon products to ensure consumer safety.
The discovery of metals in tampons has prompted political action as well. On September 5, the Democratic Women’s Caucus sent a letter to the FDA urging swift action to address the issue. Highlighting that women use an estimated 7,400 tampons over their reproductive years, the caucus emphasized the importance of protecting women from potential health risks associated with toxic substances in feminine hygiene products.
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