Study Finds Toxic Chemicals in a Majority of Seasonal Holiday Décor Products
The holidays are a time when families love to deck the halls with boughs of holly, but with some traditional holiday decorations containing potential harmful chemicals the season may not be so jolly. A recent study of 69 products by healthystuff.org found “more than two thirds of the products contained at least one hazardous chemical at levels of concern.” The products were purchased from a number of different stores including Target, Walgreens, and Walmart. They tested stockings, wreaths, tinsel and beaded garlands. The tests found harmful chemicals such as phthalates, lead and flame retardants that have been “linked to asthma, reproductive problems, developmental and learning disabilities, hormone problems and cancer.” While the Consumer Product Safety Commission regulates products children may come in contact with, “as long as the product is not labeled as being intended for children” they are not required to ensure the chemicals used are safe for children. Some of the unregulated chemicals include lead, phthalates and cadmium. Ensuring members of your family wash their hands after handling holiday string lights and frequently vacuuming will help to reduce the chances of coming into contact with these potentially harmful chemicals.
To read more on the findings of the study by healthystuff.org, follow the link: http://bit.ly/16vMf3K