Toxic Chemicals in Everyday Products
Human
exposure studies have revealed that most of our exposure to toxic chemicals
comes from sources close to us and within our control, such as consumer
products, personal care products, and building materials that we use within
our homes, workplaces, schools, and other indoor environments. Surprisingly,
many toxic chemicals in these products are not tested, regulated, or listed
on the product labels or on the Material Safety Data Sheets. Thus, a critical
gap exists between science and public awareness; for instance, products
are often assumed "safe," even though some chemicals in products
are known to be toxic. In this research project, we analyze a variety of
products, using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), to identify
toxic chemical compounds (such as "fragrance" chemicals in laundry
supplies, air fresheners, shampoos, and soaps). Results from this study
will enable people to reduce exposures (both to themselves and to the community),
such as through the use of less-toxic products, and to reduce health risks.
Anne C. Steinemann, PI