EU Considers Ethanol Ban in Biocides Amid Health Concerns

The European Union is contemplating a prohibition on ethanol in biocidal products, including hand sanitizers, due to rising cancer risks. The ECHA flagged ethanol as toxic, with potential cancer and reproductive harm. The European Commission will decide after scientific review, though WHO considers ethanol safe for hand hygiene.

The European Union is assessing the potential ban of ethanol as an active ingredient in biocidal products, raising significant health concerns. The Financial Times reported that the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) flagged ethanol for possibly increasing cancer and pregnancy-related risks.

An internal ECHA recommendation dated October 10 suggests the need to replace ethanol in products like hand sanitizers. The biocidal review committee will deliberate between November 25 and November 27, determining ethanol's future use.

Currently, no definitive conclusions have been asserted, according to an ECHA statement to Reuters. The European Commission will make its final determination following the agency's recommendation. Notably, the World Health Organization deems ethanol safe for hand hygiene usage.

(With inputs from agencies.)