| Action | Elimination of Antibacterial Soap Requirement |
| Stage | Fast-Track |
| Comment Period | Ended on 11/9/2022 |
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2 comments
Suggest referencing the EPA guidelines for acceptable disinfectants. https://www.epa.gov/pesticide-registration/selected-epa-registered-disinfectants
Years of research has indicated that there are several reasons as to why getting rid of the requirement for antibacterial soap will be beneficial in the long run. Experts working within. FDA have identified numerous reasons as to why the forgoing of antibacterial soap would be a better-established health policy. Studies have shown that these soaps contain a chemical called triclosan which has been proven to impact hormone signaling within the body (Rangel, 2017). Although this has not had statistically significant results in causing harm in humans other additives such as hexachlorophene have been shown to have harmful effects. With repeated exposures individuals are more likely to develop even more severe outcomes.
Studies have also indicated that antibacterial soaps are not any more effective than regular soap in the eradication of illnesses. It has been shown that their use does not greatly reduce the number of bacteria left after washing one’s hands. It has been noted that these forms of soaps allow for the formation of a stronger and more resistant bacteria (Stromberg, 2014). With the strongest bacteria remaining it leaves the opportunity for a more deadly combination to be formed. The passage of this act will ultimately be more beneficial and will allow for individuals to make choices regarding whether they want to expose themselves to these levels of chemical exposure.