Deregulation - works great, less filling. Side effects include....
Baby shampoos, lotions and powders may expose infants to chemicals that have been linked with possible reproductive problems, a study suggests.
The chemicals, called phthalates, are found in many ordinary products including cosmetics, toys, vinyl flooring and medical supplies. They are used to stabilize fragrances and make plastics flexible. [From Study Warns of Chemicals in Baby Items]
Of course, the FDA claims ignorance of the matter, and has no plans to begin testing without first consulting with their corporate overlords. The FDA would prefer if "data would emerge" proffered from the Lady In the Lake, or from Mount Sinai, or somewhere mythical. The FDA is too busy to conduct any studies on their own.
Concerned parents can seek products labeled "phthalate-free," or check labels for common phthalates, including DEP and DEHP.Gee, thanks!
But the chemicals often don't appear on product labels. That's because retail products aren't required to list individual ingredients of fragrances, which are a common phthalate source.
The Food and Drug Administration "has no compelling evidence that phthalates pose a safety risk when used in cosmetics," spokeswoman Stephanie Kwisnek said. "Should new data emerge, we will inform the public as well as the industry."
The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the health effects in humans are uncertain.
"Although several studies in people have explored possible associations with developmental and reproductive outcomes (semen quality, genital development in boys, shortened pregnancy, and premature breast development in young girls), more research is needed," a 2005 CDC report said.
