South Africa’s consumer watchdog has opened a formal investigation into nine leading suppliers of sanitary pads and panty liners after new academic research detected potentially harmful chemicals in commonly used menstrual products.

The inquiry by the National Consumer Commission (NCC) follows the release of a University of the Free State (UFS) study titled “The presence of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals in sanitary pads: A study done in South Africa.” The research identified endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) — including parabens, phthalates and bisphenols — in products widely used by women and girls across the country.

The findings have raised alarm within health circles because EDCs are known to interfere with the body’s hormonal systems. Exposure to these substances has been associated with a range of serious health risks, such as:

• Hormonal disruption
• Fertility problems
• Endometriosis
• Elevated cancer risk

Acting NCC Commissioner Hardin Ratshisusu said the report has prompted the regulator to fast-track the matter.

“The findings of the study raise serious concerns affecting women and girls that warrant an investigation. The affected suppliers will have the opportunity to respond to the concerns during the investigation before the NCC makes a determination on the matter,” he said.

The probe covers several of the most prominent brands sold in South Africa. The companies under investigation are:

1. Kimberly-Clark of SA (Pty) Ltd (Kotex)
2. Procter & Gamble (Pty) Ltd (Always)
3. Anna Organics
4. The Lion Match Company (Pty) Ltd, trading as Comfitex
5. Here We Flo, trading as Flo
6. Johnson & Johnson (Pty) Ltd, trading as Stayfree
7. Premier Group of Companies, trading as Lil-lets
8. Essity Hygiene and Health AB, trading as Libresse South Africa
9. My Time

The NCC has indicated that the investigation remains ongoing, with suppliers expected to present their responses before any regulatory action is taken.

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