FULL DISCLOSURE: The case for stronger household product labelling

Organization

Environmental Defence

Published

2017

Summary

In 2012, the World Health Organization and United Nations Environment Program released a major review of the science of endocrine-disrupting chemicals, indicating that chemicals in consumer products may be linked to increasing rates of cancers of the breast, thyroid and prostate. To enable consumers to reduce their exposure, Canada needs better labelling rules to inform consumers about harmful ingredients in cleaning and personal care products. Health warning labels on products such as tobacco and alcohol have been used in many jurisdictions to offer consumers information about the potential harms associated with exposure to product ingredients.

This study summarizes the results of four focus groups commissioned by Environmental Defence and conducted by Environics Research in Toronto that explored Canadian consumers’ opinions and attitudes on the use of health warning labels on personal care and cleaning products. The results of the focus groups are also supported by findings from a policy literature review on health warning labels and disclosure policies for various consumer products.

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OCA Funded Research
This research received funding support through the Office of Consumer Affairs' Contributions Program.

Contact information

Source: Consumer Policy Research Database