Microplastics in toothpaste: BSTI taking action

BSTI announced this information in a press release on Tuesday (July 28).

Recently, a private research organization claimed that microplastics were found in 26 out of 34 toothpaste samples. After this information was published, public concern arose, prompting the organization to start a serious review of the matter.

BSTI said that microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size, usually invisible to the naked eye. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also cited it as an emerging environmental and health concern, but research on its health risks is still ongoing and more scientific data is needed.

The organization said that following the standard ‘BDS 1216:2012 Specification for Toothpaste’ is mandatory for toothpaste production in Bangladesh. This standard contains a list of 81 ingredients permissible for use in toothpaste, which does not include microplastics. Therefore, BSTI believes that there is no scope for licensed companies to intentionally use microplastics.

However, the organization also noted that it is not scientifically correct to consider the detection of plastic particles in any test as definitive proof of intentional use or health risk. Therefore, more detailed testing is needed on the source, type, quantity and potential health risks of the particles.

BSTI said that they have requested the full research report, test methods and raw data from the concerned research organization. In addition, information on raw materials, product ingredients and use of synthetic polymers is also being collected from toothpaste manufacturers and importers.

In addition, an initiative has been taken to review the Bangladeshi standard for toothpaste involving experts, research institutions, the Department of Environment, the Directorate General of Drug Administration, dentists, industry representatives, and consumer representatives. BSTI said that if necessary scientific evidence is found, the existing standard will be updated to control the intentional use of plastic microbeads in toothpaste, make ingredient disclosure mandatory, and include testing methods.