This month, Minnesota became the first state to ban the antibacterial chemical, triclosan, from soaps in retail consumer products. The chemical is widely-used as a germ-killing agent in soaps and deodorants. Minnesota Gov. Mark Dayton signed the bill on May 16, following health and environmental concerns surrounding the chemical.

According the the Associated Press, who reported the findings, about 75 percent of anti-bacterial liquid soaps and body washes contain triclosan. Whle the chemical hasn't been found to be hazardous to humans, studies have indicated that it can "disrupt hormones critical for reproduction, at least in lab animals, and contribute to the development of resistant bacteria."

Last year, the Food and Drug Administration said there was no evidence to suggest that triclosan was any more effective than good ol' soap and water when it came to preventing diseases.

Minnesota's ban won't go into effect until 2017, but some companies, such as Proctor & Gamble and Johnson & Johnson, have begun phasing out the ingredient in its products. The American Cleaning Institute — who asked that the Minnesota governor veto the bill — claims triclosan has been thoroughly researched and proven to provide health benefits.

"Triclosan's use in antibacterial soaps is regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration," wrote Douglas Troutman, ACI Vice President & Counsel. "Yet the legislative ban on triclosan ignores this reality. Instead of letting federal regulators do their job, the legislation would take safe, effective and beneficial products off the shelves of Minnesota grocery, convenience and drug stores."

In December, the FDA released a proposal that would require anit-bacterial soap manufacturers to demonstrate that their products are safe for daily use, and more effective than plain soap and water. The agency is taking public comments on the matter.

 

To read the article in its entirety, click here.

To read the full contents of ACI's letter, click here.