Ethoxylates Linked to Cancer and Environmental Damage
February 8, 2023 · Monika Harah
One area that is often overlooked is the laundry detergent we use. Many popular laundry detergents contain a chemical called Ethoxylates, which can have harmful effects on both our health and the environment.
“According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 1,4-dioxane is a probable human carcinogen, and has been classified as such by the agency, it has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and other types of cancer.”
Ethoxylates are a group of chemicals that are commonly used as surfactants in laundry detergents and other cleaning products. They work by breaking down dirt and grime, making it easier to wash away.
However, the problem with Ethoxylates is that they can break down into potentially harmful by-products, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide.
1,4-dioxane is a probable human carcinogen, and has been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has also classified it as a likely human carcinogen. On the other hand, Ethylene oxide is a known human carcinogen and has been linked to an increased risk of lymphoma and leukemia.
“The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified ethylene oxide as a known human carcinogen, and has been linked to an increased risk of lymphoma and leukemia.”
In addition to the potential health risks, Ethoxylates can also have negative effects on the environment. They can be toxic to aquatic life and can contribute to the formation of harmful algal blooms. They can also persist in the environment for long periods of time, making them difficult to remove.
According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a non-profit organization that studies the environmental and health impacts of consumer products, more than 50% of laundry detergents contain Ethoxylates.
In order to reduce our exposure to these harmful chemicals, it is important to choose laundry detergents that are free of Ethoxylates. Look for products that are labeled as "non-toxic" or "green" and read the ingredient list to make sure that Ethoxylates are not included.
In conclusion, Ethoxylates are a group of chemicals commonly used in laundry detergents and other cleaning products. But they are a potential human carcinogen and also toxic to aquatic life.
It's important to reduce our exposure to these harmful chemicals by choosing laundry detergents that are free of Ethoxylates. And also read the ingredient list to make sure Ethoxylates are not included.