A synthetic disinfectant and bactericide, this chemical is biologically active (meaning it can negatively affect living organisms). The widespread indiscriminate use of bactericides is also now causing the emergence of new strains of bacteria that are resistant to them. Benzalkonium chloride, and other synthetic disinfectants, should be avoided for these reasons.
Found in: Conventional spray disinfectants, disinfecting cleaners, disinfecting hand soaps and lotions.
(also benzol, benzole, annulene, benzeen, phenyl hydride, coal naphtha). Made from petroleum and coal, benzene is classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as a carcinogen, is listed in the 1990 Clean Air Act as a hazardous air pollutant, and is on the EPA's Community Right-to-Know list.
Found in: Conventional oven cleaners, detergents, furniture polish, spot removers.
The process that occurs when animals and human beings repeatedly ingest a chemical over time (usually in very small doses) via air, food, and/or water, or through absorption by the skin. If the ingested chemical is persistent, it can build up or bioaccumulate in bodily tissues (especially fat and internal organs) and result in a body burden. Bioaccumulation also refers to a specific material's slowly increasing presence in animals and people as it moves up the food chain.
The amount of a chemical stored in the body at a given time, especially a potential toxin in the body as the result of exposure. Some substances build up in the body because they are stored in fat or bone or because they leave the body very slowly.
(also butoxyethanol, butyl oxitol, ethylene glycol monobutyl ether). A toxic synthetic solvent and grease cutter that can irritate mucous membranes and cause liver and kidney damage. Butyl cellosolve is also a neurotoxin that can depress the nervous system and cause a variety of associated problems.
Found in: Conventional spray cleaners, all-purpose cleaners, abrasive cleaners.
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