The Chemical Industries Association (CIA), the organisation that represents chemical and pharmaceutical businesses across the UK, has today welcomed the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) Opinion as another important contribution to the discussions on endocrine disruptors. CIA Chemicals Policy Director, Dr Joanne Lloyd said “We are happy to see EFSA's Opinion reaches the same conclusion as industry in that risk assessment is applicable to endocrine disruptors and that they can be managed in the same way as other chemicals. CIA is working closely with our European colleagues to improve scientific knowledge, methodology and criteria to safeguard public health and the environment from chemicals with endocrine disrupting properties”.

Many chemicals, both natural and man-made, exhibit effects on the endocrine (hormone) system and are therefore referred to as endocrine active chemicals. However, it is only those where an interference with the hormone system leads to harmful adverse health effects that should be termed endocrine disruptors. This view is supported by the World Health Organization definition.

Lloyd added “We believe regulatory action should only be taken in cases of endocrine disrupting chemicals (i.e. those that cause harmful adverse health effects). That way we will avoid unnecessary removal of chemicals that contribute safely and positively to the way we live”.

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Notes to Editors

The Chemical Industries Association is the organisation that represents chemical and pharmaceutical businesses located throughout the UK www.cia.org.uk

http://www.cia.org.uk/Portals/0/Documents/Endocrine%20Disruptors.pdf

For an interview with/further comment from Jo Lloyd please call Simon Marsh on 07951 389197