Antibacterial Triclosan to be Banned from Minnesota

Minnesota will no longer allow the common antibacterial ingredient found in many body washes, cosmetics and toothpastes, known as triclosan. By January 1, 2017, lawmakers will ban the ingredient within the state due its effectiveness and certain safety precautions.

"In order to prevent the spread of infectious disease and avoidable infections and to promote best practices in sanitation, no person shall offer for retail sale in Minnesota any cleaning product that contains triclosan and is used by consumers for sanitizing or hand and body cleansing," the new law states, according to CNN.

This law will ban products containing the antibacterial from being sold within the state. However, products containing triclosan that have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will still be allowed.

The effects of triclosan remain relatively unclear, with some studies suggesting that overuse can increase the development of antibiotic resistant strains. Animal studies have also been linked to long-term exposure of a reduction in thyroid hormones, in some cases. 

"Millions of Americans use antibacterial hand soap and body wash products," the FDA previously stated.. "Although consumers generally view these products as effective tools to help prevent the spread of germs, there is currently no evidence that they are any more effective at preventing illness than washing with plain soap and water."

The law was co-signed by Governor Mark Dayton.