Cancer-causing chemical found in some organic products

Of the 100 soaps, shampoos and other consumer products tested, 47 had detectable levels of 1,4-dioxane, which the Environmental Protection Agency has declared a probable human carcinogen because it causes cancer in lab animals. Most traditional soaps and shampoos contain 1,4-dioxane. But the discovery that the chemical is present in many housecleaning and personal care products that are advertised as being natural, organic or "green" comes as somewhat of a surprise.

Hain Celestial Group, the Boulder, Colo.-based owner of four of the tested companies--Alba, Jason, Avalon Organics and Zia Natural Skincare--says it will reevaluate all of its products. Two Alba and three Jason products contained 1,4-dioxane, but the chemical was not detected in tested Avalon and Zia products.

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