Government is urging companies to remove the antibacterial compound triclosan from products

The Canadian government is urging companies to remove the antibacterial compound triclosan from products. Currently, the government is calling for companies to phase out the compound voluntarily, but has not ruled out regulations in future.

Triclosan is used in products such as antibacterial soaps, deodorants and toothpastes, but there are concerns that it can harm aquatic life, including fish and amphibians. Canada is expected to finalise its assessment and propose risk management steps in late 2013.

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