Back in August, 
2007 the Organic Test Kitchen created a post dealing with the popular antimicrobial Triclosan. Now the Washington Post published their take on this chemical. Here’s the highlights of what they had to say:
-They are being added in a wide range of products (plastics, synthetic fibers, air filters, wallpaper, bath appliances, door frames, food storage containers, sinks and computer keyboards) even though no health benefit has been demonstrated.
-The products may weaken the immune system.
-Some studies indicate that Antimicrobial Soap is no better than plain old fashion soap.
-They may promote resistant strains of bacteria although this is not supported by studies
-The two compounds (Triclosan & Triclocarban) where found in 60% of our rivers and streams according to a 2002 US Geological Survey Study.
-Triclosan mixed with chlorinated water and exposed to sunlight forms Dioxin.
So the bottom line is companies put such chemicals into products because the consumers demand them. Whether these products are useful or not seems to be irrelevant. But as usual, there are unintended consequences for our health (which this stuff is suppose to improve) and our environment. Sure we eat Organic primarily for the Health Benefits & Taste. But it also feels good to know that we are also protecting the environment… and that’s a very good thing.
