Fact Sheet on the Antimicrobial Chemical Triclosan

The RMP has developed the first in a series of fact sheets on contaminants of emerging concern (CECs). The fact sheets are intended to serve as a quick reference for media, regulators, decision-makers, and scientists to allow communication of accurate information to the public. Each fact sheet will summarize our current understanding of a select CEC, including the latest data and concerns for San Francisco Bay.

Triclosan, an antimicrobial chemical used in antibacterial hand soaps and other consumer products, was selected as the focus of the first RMP fact sheet. A more detailed profile of the antimicrobials Triclosan and Triclocarban was recently published, which supports the fact sheet with technical information on the use, fate, and effects of these contaminants in San Francisco Bay.