Silent Springs Institute has published a study in the peer-reviewed journal Environmental Health Perspectives thattested a variety of consumer products for the presence of many suspect chemicals. (According to its website, “Silent Spring Institute is staffed and led by researchers dedicated to science that serves the public interest.”) The researchers tested over 213 products in 50 categories for 55 chemicals of concern, including parabens, phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA), antimicrobials, cyclosiloxanes, glycol ethers, and fragrances. The study is titled, “Endocrine Disruptors and Asthma- Associated Chemicals in Consumer Products.”
Of particular VI interest, the group has issued a document, “Top 12 Tips for Greening Your Cleaning and Personal Care,” which recommends choosing “plain water, baking soda and vinegar for cleaning.” Use this link to access the tips (pdf).
According to forbes.com, the study has been criticized by manufacturers “for being biased and for relying in part on old information. The article notes, “This study presents a clear example of biased, advocacy-based research,” says William Troy, Ph.D., Scientific Advisor to the International Fragrance Association North America. “It is a repackaging of older information and the methodology used defies basic principles and standards of scientific protocols and investigations. The advice to consumers based on study findings is simply wrong,” said Dr. Troy.”