A new study led by University of California Berkeley and published in Environmental International evaluated levels of 16 metals in 30 tampons from 14 brands sold across US (79%) and Europe (21%). The study found measurable concentrations of lead, arsenic and cadmium. To reassure our customers, we’ve issued this statement:
“At TOTM, we celebrate any new scientific publication that evaluates the safety of menstrual products. Our mission is to provide 100% organic, ethical & sustainable period care whilst offering honesty and transparency to customers at every step, and findings such as these help us continue to elevate, advance and shape the future of the industry. We appreciate this study raises concerns around tampons and in light of this, we want to ease any potential concerns from our customers.
Our tampons are certified to the Global Organic Textiles Standard (GOTS), the worldwide leading textile processing standard which effectively sets the bar for organic brands across varying industries. Independent third-parties vigorously test TOTM’s entire supply chain before we are submitted as part of a GOTS audit, meaning even the purest of organic cotton fibres undergo testing for heavy metals. GOTS place limit values on safe, low concentrations of these heavy metals and we are pleased to report that TOTM complies with this, and that additional testing of our products showed no detection whatsoever of heavy metals such arsenic, lead, or cadmium.
In this study, research also suggests that intentional additives like antimicrobial/odour control/agents and lubricants could constitute potential sources of metals. We can confirm that none of these are added to our tampons during the manufacturing process. Since launching in 2017, we have prided ourselves on the quality of our products by providing an eco-conscious alternative to the conventional period care products. All TOTM products are made without artificial absorbents, fragrance and chlorine bleach. TOTM is also B Corp certified and registered with The Vegan Society.
Whether you are a current customer who may still be feeling unsure or a new customer wanting to make a more informed choice for your wellbeing, TOTM is a market leader in the ethical & sustainable space with something to suit every period. Pads remain the leading period product purchased in the UK and our pads are made with 100% organic cotton, offering ultimate comfort and protection. Alternatively, our menstrual cups are becoming increasingly popular as a zero-waste option, with a super-soft and flexible fit for up to 12 hours.
Whilst the recent study around tampons might seem alarming, it’s worth noting that like any new finding, it requires further testing and exploration, and the effects are unclear. At TOTM we remain curious, proactive and discerning of the facts as they emerge, whilst continuing to provide tampons [plus pads and menstrual cups] of the utmost quality. We will continue to strive for nothing short of excellence and remain receptive and attuned to the best interests of our customers.”
And finally, it’s important to note:
Several of the heavy metals discovered in this study have been found in genuinely low concentrations. This could be explained by using extremely low detection limits (MDL) within the testing and, as researchers suggest, they could be present due to systemic environmental pollution.
Researchers have also admitted that future investigation is needed to replicate their findings and that it cannot yet be assessed to what extent (if any) metals in tampons could be absorbed by the body and may contribute to any health problems.
