Source: European Parliament
Question for written answer E-001459/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Joanna Scheuring-Wielgus (S&D)
There is no obligation in the EU to indicate the composition of menstrual products on their packaging. This means that millions of persons who menstruate do not know what substances are coming into direct contact with their bodies. The lack of transparency regarding the composition of menstrual products in the EU is a serious health and consumer issue. The substances in these products can affect both intimate health and the body’s overall health[1], and current regulations do not provide adequate protection. The examples of France[2] and some states in the USA[3] show that the introduction of regulations is possible and necessary.
- 1.Does the Commission plan to make it mandatory for the chemical composition of menstrual products to be indicated on their packaging, as is the case in the USA and France?
- 2.What steps is the Commission taking to ensure greater transparency and safety in relation to menstrual hygiene products in the EU?
- 3.Are there any plans to regulate the chemical substances allowed in tampons and sanitary pads to minimise health risks?
Submitted: 9.4.2025
- [1] CNN. (2024). Tampons may contain lead, arsenic, and plastics, study finds. https://edition.cnn.com/2024/07/11/health/tampons-lead-arsenic-plastics-wellness/index.html
- [2] RTL. (2024). Protections hygiéniques : la composition des produits devra être indiquée à partir d’avril. https://www.rtl.fr/actu/debats-societe/protections-hygieniques-la-composition-des-produits-devra-etre-indiquee-a-partir-d-avril-7900361430
- [3] Women’s Voices for the Earth. (2021). Nation’s first menstrual products disclosure law goes into effect in New York. https://womensvoices.org/2021/10/20/nations-first-menstrual-products-disclosure-law-goes-into-effect-in-new-york/