WASHINGTON – The federal government Friday banned more than a dozen chemicals long-used in antibacterial soaps, saying manufacturers failed to show they are safe and kill germs.
“We have no scientific evidence that they are any better than plain soap and water,” said Dr. Janet Woodcock, the Food and Drug Administration’ drug center director, in a statement.
Friday’s decision primarily targets two once-ubiquitous ingredients – triclosan and triclocarban – that some research in animals suggests can interfere with hormone levels and spur drug-resistant bacteria.
The 19 banned chemicals have long been under scrutiny, and a cleaning industry spokesman said most companies have already removed them from their soaps and washes.
SAN JOSE, Calif. – Brock Turner, whose six-month sentence for sexually assaulting an unconscious woman at Stanford University sparked national outcry, was released from jail Friday morning after serving half his six-month sentence.
The one-time Olympic hopeful swimmer walked out the main entrance of the Santa Clara County jail shortly after 6 a.m. PDT. Turner, who kept his head down and didn’t acknowledge the media, was carrying a large packet of hate mail sent to him during his incarceration.
The tall and lanky Turner appeared to be wearing the same shirt and pants he wore during his June 2 sentencing hearing, carrying his suit jacket under an arm.
Associated Press
