India Urged to Ban Microbeads in Personal Care Products Amid Health Concerns

India is urged to consider banning microbeads in personal care products, following similar actions in the UK and US, The Guardian Reported yesterday.

Researchers from Cochin University found microbeads in 45% of 45 widely available products analyzed, highlighting a growing concern as demand from India’s expanding middle class drives production. The personal care industry in India was valued at $28 billion in 2023, making it one of the largest markets globally.

Microbeads, a type of microplastic used for exfoliation, contribute significantly to primary microplastic pollution, despite representing less than 10% of total ocean microplastics. They pose potential health risks, being linked to hormone imbalances and other issues in humans and wildlife.

Although the Indian Bureau of Standards has regulated single-use plastics since 2011, specific regulations on microbeads remain absent. The recent ban on non-recycled polyethylene, commonly used in microbeads, lacks stringent enforcement. Researchers advocate for better labeling, natural alternatives, and outright bans to raise consumer awareness and reduce demand for these harmful products.