Feminine hygiene brands in South Africa face probe over safety and compliance
Parliament and the Department of Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities support the development of enhanced regulations with health authorities.
SOUTH AFRICA – South Africa’s National Consumer Commission (NCC) has initiated a probe into nine suppliers of sanitary pads after a University of the Free State (UFS) study identified hormone-disrupting chemicals in popular menstrual products.
South Africa’s consumer protection agency announced on Monday that the investigation, which may run for up to 6 months, requires suppliers to provide their latest test results within 1 month.
UFS spokesperson, said, “The purpose of the scientific research conducted at the university is not to create fear, anxiety, and panic, but to inform and empower consumers, policymakers, and health professionals through robust data and scientific evidence.”
The UFS research, detailed in the journal Science of the Total Environment, examined 16 sanitary pad brands and eight panty liner varieties sold in South African stores.
It detected endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) such as phthalates, bisphenols, and parabens in all samples, with detection rates of 50-100% in pads and 75-100% in liners, even in those labelled “free from harmful chemicals.”
The World Health Organization notes that EDCs can disrupt hormonal systems, potentially causing metabolic issues, developmental problems, fertility challenges, reproductive disorders, and higher cancer risks.
While no immediate harm was proven, experts highlight risks from long-term exposure during repeated menstrual use.
The focus is on nine major suppliers of multiple products, including global firms Johnson & Johnson and Procter & Gamble (sold in regions like North America, Europe, Kenya, Nigeria, and Pakistan), alongside JSE-listed Premier Group (Lil-lets), Kimberly-Clark South Africa (Kotex), Essity Hygiene (Libresse), My Time, Here We Flo, Anna Organics, and The Lion Match Company (Comfitex).
However, none has publicly responded to the findings.
Political groups and women’s advocates demand accountability, while UFS clarifies that its work aims to inform, not cause panic, noting that chemicals may arise unintentionally during manufacturing.
This move comes at a time when South Africa’s feminine hygiene products market is valued at about USD 207 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 326 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 5–9% across product categories, according to Strategy Helix Group.
Growth is driven by rising awareness, urbanization, and government/private initiatives to combat period poverty.
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