A rising tide of reactions to biocides and preservatives are causing thousands of Americans pain and suffering - impacting health, work and even their livelihoods. In particular, previously rated "safe" preservatives in the isothiazolinone family (methylisothiazolinone/MI, benzisothiazolinone, methylchlorisothiazolinone) are under scrutiny in Europe and have been banned in leave-on products beginning in 2015. However, in the US nothing is being done at a regulatory level - and cases of sensitization are on the rise and expected to hit epidemic levels.

People with allergies to biocide preservatives can avoid them if labels disclose inclusion, but the very items containing them are not always required to disclose (particularly if the amount is less than 2%). Laundry detergents, household cleaners and dish detergents for example do not carry an ingredient list on the product (and the majority contain MI, MCI or BIT). It's increasingly found in leather treatments, auto air conditioning treatments, adhesives, paint and industrial HVAC cooling systems, and yet no disclosure is currently required or given. A recent study shows 93% of house paints contain MI/MCI/BIT in some quantity. The majority of shampoos and conditioners in most US drug stores contain variants of MI. It's ironically rampant in "green" and "hypoallergenic" formulations that are paraben-free.

Of course we want safe products that are bacteria-free and have a long shelf life! But for the growing legions of citizens who are dramatically affected by the chemicals we use to control bacteria (an estimated 7%-10% of population globally), a world without proper labeling is a nightmare. It inhibits travel, workplace safety, product consumption and overall health.

I urge you to please review the following links for more information on MI. Note too that Microban and other biocides are currently being baked into plastic handles on shopping carts and other public surfaces, with no labeling or disclosure.

http://www.medicaldaily.com/chemical-irritant-cosmetics-banned-europe-mit-leads-epidemic-skin-allergies-eczema-265379​

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/01/24/business/allergy-trigger-found-in-many-personal-care-items-comes-under-greater-scrutiny.html?smid=fb-share&_r=0​

https://www.facebook.com/notes/allergy-to-isothiazolinone-methylisothiazolinone-and-chloroisothiazolinone/start-here-helpful-info-links-apps-and-research/663039420416431

I am personally affected, and set up a Facebook community in 2012 to connect with others who are sensitized. Reports have increased significantly in the past three years and the acceleration that is expected to continue as cross exposure triggers more sensitization events.