Many Americans rely on the FDA to remove or prevent toxic products from ending up on store shelves. What has come to light in recent years is that many products that contain cancer-causing chemicals are technically legal, though extremely unsafe. While certain products have been recalled, and other being looked at for a possible recall, it’s ultimately up to the consumer to do their due diligence and be informed about the products you’re using in your home.
Constantly researching every element behind a certain product can get quite exhausting, so our aim is to make the process a bit easier by giving you 20 products you should avoid altogether.
14 Toxic Products to Avoid in your Home
- Talc Powder / Baby Powder
For years now, major Talcum powder distributors have faced major lawsuits over the product’s link of prolonged use in the genital regions to ovarian cancer. The toxicity of talcum powder is actually due to the Talc, which is made of magnesium, oxygen and silicon. A Louisville personal injury lawyer defended Kentucky victims against talcum powder distributor Johnson & Johnson’s company to win a multi-million dollar class-action lawsuit for those who developed ovarian cancer and even lost their lives to talc-related illnesses. While companies like Johnson & Johnson have recently rebranded with “safer” talcum products, our best advice would be to avoid it altogether.
- Non-Stick Cookware
It’s conveniency has brought it into many homes – but at what cost? In order to produce non-stick cookware, pots and pans must be coated with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), which when heated to elevated temperatures can turn into Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a toxic element. Safer options include cast iron and carbon steel pans.
- Dandruff Shampoo
The Center of Environmental Health performed a study that found that over 100 shampoo brands contain a toxic element “Cocamide DEA,” which is a chemically modified form of coconut oil used to thicken and produce a foaming element to shampoos. The state of California has banned its use due to its possible carcinogenic to humans. An extensive list of shampoos containing this element can be found here. Many of the products found on the list are dandruff shampoos, some even claiming to be organic.
- TIDE Laundry Detergent
A toxic element found in laundry detergent is 1,4-Dioxane, which has been linked to cancer and other severe ailments. In 2010, Tide detergent was the leading brand containing the 1,4-Dioxane element. Since then, consumers spoke out and the company has reformulated its product. While less in quantity, it’s still present in Tide detergents.
- Microwaveable Popcorn
The CEH found 100% of microwaveable popcorn contained “per/polyfluoroalkyl substances” or PFAS. According to the FDA, these chemicals found in popcorn bags rub off on popcorn and eventually into our systems. Our advice? Get loose kernels and make your own!
- Kids Cereals
The Center for Environmental Health found high levels of glyphosate in many children’s oat cereals. In fact, about 82% of kid cereals tested positive for the toxic element. Negative health impacts of exposure to glyphosate include birth defects, reduced sperm production, damage to liver and kidneys, disruption of bodies’ hormone products and even cancer.
- Plastics
Plastics contain a toxic element called “BPA” that has been directly linked to cancer and fertility problems, male impotence, heart disease and other serious conditions. Plastic packaging, water bottles, and many tupperware plastics contain BPA. We advise you use glass, stainless steel, ceramics, or wood containers instead. Also avoid using any plastic with a recycling codes 3 and 6.
- Cosmetic Products
A recent 2018 study found several common cosmetics to contain ‘elevated levels’ ‘of a toxic chemical linked to cancer, called PFAS or perfluorooctanesulfonic acid.
- Toothpastes containing Fluoride
Many who grew up in the 90s used Fluoride as a way to improve dental health. What we now know in 2019 is that elevated levels of fluoride in the body can lead to thyroid dysfunctions, hypothyroidism, uterine and bladder cancer, among others.
- Jewelry Metal
A report from the Associated Press found toxic metals in fashion jewelry from popular department stores, including Ross, Nordstrom Rack, Papaya and more. These metals contain the toxic chemical cadium, which has been linked to cancer, reproductive harm, and damage to kidneys and bones over time.
- Phthalates / Fragrance
Often disguised in ingredients labels as “fragrance,” phthalates can be found in common air fresheners, dish soap, cosmetics and even toilet paper. This element is known to disrupt normal hormone levels in the body and mess with endocrine levels. It has been shown to reduce sperm counts and lead to various forms of reproductive issues.
- Whole Milk
Whole milk has been found to contain Phthalates and other toxic chemicals that derive from a cow and pasteurization process. As an alternative, buy skim milk and low fat cheeses to be safe.
- Oven Cleaners
Oven cleaners and drain openers containing “sodium hydroxide” has been lInked to causing severe burns on contact with human skin. Inhalation of the element can also lead to sore throats lasting several days.