EU Considers Ethanol Ban in Biocides Amid Cancer Risk Concerns

The EU is considering banning ethanol in biocidal products due to cancer risks, as indicated by the European Chemicals Agency. An internal recommendation has been made, but no final decision is reached. The European Commission will make the final decision after scientific evaluation by the ECHA's Biocidal Products Committee.

The European Union is contemplating a ban on the use of ethanol as an active ingredient in biocidal products, such as hand sanitizers. The move comes following concerns over potential cancer risks, as reported by the Financial Times. An internal recommendation issued on October 10 by a working group within the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) identified ethanol as a toxic substance that could increase cancer risks and cause pregnancy complications.

The ECHA's Biocidal Products Committee is scheduled to meet from November 25 to November 28 to discuss the recommendation. The agency noted in a statement to Reuters that the assessment of ethanol's safety for biocidal use is ongoing. If it's determined that ethanol poses a significant risk to human health, its substitution will be recommended.

The European Commission will make the final decision based on the scientific opinion provided by the committee. Despite the concern, the World Health Organization currently classifies ethanol and isopropanol as safe chemicals for hand hygiene.

(With inputs from agencies.)