Minnesota Bans Triclosan, an Ingredient in Antibacterial Soaps

Triclosan, a controversial antimicrobial agent and registered pesticide found in antibacterial soaps and body washes, dishwashing liquids, cosmetics and toothpastes, is being banned in Minnesota effective Jan. 1, 2017. On Friday, Gov. Mark Dayton signed a bill that will prohibit the use of triclosan in any cleaning products, personal care items or cosmetics.

Minnesota is the only state to enact a ban so far, but manufacturers have announced plans to discontinue the chemical. On its website, Procter & Gamble announced it has decided to eliminate triclosan from its products by the end of the year.