15 Carcinogenic Ingredients States Are Trying to Ban Right Now

Cancer has become the second leading cause of death in the United States, claiming nearly 600,00 lives every year. In light of this, In 2023, California made a notable move in public health by banning certain ingredients in consumer products known as the Skittles Ban. This decision was made due to increased cancer risks linked to the chemicals in this popular candy.  

Following California’s steps, other states, such as New York, Pennsylvania, Missouri, and Illinois, are also considering similar bans. The list of targeted ingredients is long, including artificial colors and preservatives. 

While these ingredients have become a staple in American households, research suggests long-term exposure could severely affect our health. Here’s a list of the 15 ingredients states are trying to ban for your health and well-being.

1. Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a colorless, flammable gas used to produce various products, such as adhesives, plastics, hair straighteners, and nail polish. It is a known human carcinogen, and exposure to formaldehyde has been linked to an increased risk of nasopharyngeal cancer (cancer of the nose, throat, and sinuses) and leukemia.

When products containing formaldehyde are used, the gas can be released into the air, leading to respiratory irritation and increasing the risk of cancer over time.

Due to these health concerns, agencies like the FDA and several states, including Minnesota and New York, have introduced laws to ban or limit the use of formaldehyde in certain products, particularly those used in salons and other personal care settings.

2. Parabens

Parabens are preservatives commonly used in personal care products, such as cosmetics and lotions, to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. They are also used in some food products and medications. However, parabens have been found to mimic estrogen in the body, which can disrupt hormone balance and potentially increase the risk of breast cancer.

Due to these concerns, Parabens are entirely banned in Europe, and now California has proposed a ban on propylparaben in personal care products. Consumers can also look for products labeled as “paraben-free” or opt for natural preservatives. 

Additionally, individuals can limit their exposure to parabens by reading ingredient labels and choosing products that do not contain them.

3. Mercury 

Mercury and mercury compounds have been used as skin-lightening agents, anti-infective agents, or preservatives in cosmetics. The FDA has warned against using mercury in skin creams due to the risk of mercury poisoning and other health effects. 

These high mercury levels in products have led states like California and New York to ban the sale of mercury-containing cosmetics. It ensures that people are not unknowingly exposed to harmful levels of mercury. 

4. Brominated Vegetable Oil

Brominated Vegetable Oil (BVO) is used in fruit-flavored soda to keep the ingredients from separating. However, people worry about its safety because it contains bromine, which is also used in flame retardants.

BVO could build up in our bodies and harm the nervous system and thyroid, with some studies suggesting it could cause skin problems, memory loss, and affect brain development. 

Because of these health concerns, places like California, Missouri, and Washington have introduced bills to limit or stop the use of BVO in food and drinks to reduce health risks in the American diet. 

5. Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners like Aspartame and saccharin are found in processed foods and diet drinks. These are a sugar-free alternative for those looking to reduce their caloric intake. However, studies have shown that Aspartame has been linked to various health issues, including cancer.

It is mainly composed of two amino acids, aspartic acid, and phenylalanine, broken down into methanol in the body. Methanol is converted to formaldehyde and then formic acid, both known carcinogens. To prevent this, California has added Aspartame to its list of prepositions 65, requiring labeling warnings of products containing ingredients known to cause cancer. 

6. Talc

Talc is a naturally occurring mineral used in baby powder and makeup. However, studies showed a potential link between talc and ovarian cancer. 

The primary concern with talc is some talc contains asbestos, which has been linked to lung cancer and other respiratory diseases. While it is still not banned in the U.S., many baby powder brands now use cornstarch instead of talc to prevent its harmful effects.

Individuals can protect themselves from potential exposure to talc by choosing talc-free alternatives or avoiding personal care products that contain talc. It is also important to note that the safety of talc is still being debated, and further research is needed to understand its potential risks fully. 

7. PFAS

PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. These chemicals are found in everyday products, like cookware, furniture, and food packaging. What makes PFAS particularly problematic is that they don’t break down in the environment or the human body, which is why they are also called “forever chemicals.” 

Studies have linked PFAS exposure to a range of health problems, including cancer, liver damage, and immune system effects. Due to these risks, Maine was the first state to ban PFAS products; several states banned PFAS use in consumer products.

8. Red Dye 3

Red Dye 3, or erythrosine, is a synthetic dye used widely in candies, baked goods, and cosmetics to give them a bright red color. It is found in common household foods like fruit by the foot, peeps, candies, and certain lunch meats and hot dogs. However, it’s a topic of debate due to its potential link to thyroid tumors and behavioral problems in kids. 

In response to these concerns, California has banned this ingredient, and the FDA is reviewing the law. Many other states, such as Illinois, Missouri, and New York, are also trying to ban red dye 3. It is to protect consumers until more evidence about its safety can be determined. 

9. Potassium Bromate

Potassium bromate is a chemical additive often used in the baking industry to strengthen the dough and improve the rise of baked goods, very common in standard white bread and buns. However, its safety is being questioned after studies linked it to an increased risk of cancer in animals. Lab studies show that it converts to oxides and free radicals, damaging DNA and chromosomes.  

Due to these findings, potassium bromate has been banned in the European Union, Canada, and several other countries. While it is still legal in the U.S., the State of California has just proposed a ban on this ingredient for the better health of its people. 

10. Glyphosate

Glyphosate, an herbicide widely used in agriculture, is a subject of debate. The World Health Organization has classified it as carcinogenic to humans.

However, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency maintains that it poses no risks to public health when used according to label instructions. But, California, known for its strict regulations, has proposed to list glyphosate as a chemical known to cause cancer, which could lead to clear warning labels on products containing it.

11. Arsenic

Arsenic is a tasteless and odorless element and that’s why it is difficult to detect. Chronic exposure to arsenic has been linked to cancer of the bladder, lungs, skin, kidney, nasal passages, liver, and prostate.

Due to these health concerns, states like New Jersey have set standards for arsenic in drinking water, aiming to reduce exposure to this toxic element.

12. Artificial Food Colorings

Artificial colorings have long been a staple because they make our food look appealing. In addition to Red Dye 3, which California has specifically banned due to links to cancer, other synthetic dyes are under scrutiny for health concerns. 

These include Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6, commonly found in various processed foods, such as candies and beverages, associated with hyperactivity and other behavioral issues in children. Some studies suggest that these colorings may also carry carcinogenic risks. 

While not all are banned across the United States, the debate continues as the public and many states want natural and healthy alternatives and strict labeling laws. 

13. Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA)

Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) is a preservative used in various foods to extend shelf life and maintain quality. While it’s important to keep food fresh and tasty, the U.S. National Institute of Health has declared BHA a potential carcinogen. This worry comes from studies where BHA caused cancer in lab animals, which has made people question its safety for humans.

As a result, New York has proposed a ban on this ingredient, whereas California has listed BHA under Proposition 65, which requires brands to provide label warnings about chemicals that cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.

14. Azodicarbonamide

Azodicarbonamide (ADA) is a chemical used in bread and baked goods to make the bread soft and fluffy. However, when heated, ADA can convert into potentially harmful chemical byproducts, including semicarbazide and urethane, which have been linked in animal studies to cancer and respiratory issues. 

In response to this, the European Union banned this ingredient over a decade ago. Now, in the US, New York has taken the lead and has restricted its use due to these concerns. 

15. Titanium Dioxide

Titanium dioxide is a common ingredient found in sunscreens, cosmetics, and even food. It’s used as a whitening agent and to provide texture. However, according to The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), titanium dioxide is classified as a Group 2B carcinogen.

Titanium dioxide, when exposed to UV light can create reactive oxygen species (ROS). These ROS can damage DNA, causing cancer. Additionally, when small particles of titanium dioxide are inhaled, they can cause inflammation in the lungs, which may also increase the risk of lung cancer. As a result, New York has proposed a ban on using titanium dioxide in certain products.

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Interestingly, a recent study found that common usual snacks in our pantries, like ultra-processed chips, cookies, and sugary cereals, are not just making us obese but they’re also linked to a bigger risk of developing chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. 

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