Antibacterial=Safe Soap? Maybe Not So Much
Guess what? Those antibacterial soaps we use so much -- and feel so safe about? Maybe not so much. The Food and Drug Administration says there is no evidence that antibacterial chemicals used in liquid soaps and washes help prevent the spread of germs, and there is some evidence they may pose health risks, according to The Washington Post. The agency said it is revisiting the safety of chemicals like triclosan in light of recent studies suggesting they can interfere with hormone levels and spur the growth of drug-resistant bacteria, the AP reports. In fact, the very chemicals supposed to prevent us from getting sick may actually make us sick. The AP notes that, u nder its proposed rule released Monday, the agency will require manufacturers to prove that their antibacterial soaps and body washes are safe and more effective than plain soap and water. If companies cannot demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of their products, they would have to b...