What is a Proposition 65 warning?
This warning is required by California law for businesses to provide to Californians about the significant exposures to chemicals that are known to be toxic to humans. The chemicals that can cause cancer, birth defects and other reproductive harm. All businesses must provide a clear warning before intentionally exposing people to these harmful chemicals.
While concerning, the label usually means that the manufacturer is exercising an abundance of caution to inform its customers of the presence of any listed chemicals. Of course, you should still do your research and assure yourself of the brand’s commitment to your safety.
I’m not a resident of California, so why am I still seeing the warning label on the product I purchased?
Though the law only applies to California, it can prove very costly, if not impossible, for manufacturers to ascertain where a unit may be shipped. Since most brands ship nationally and the penalties for non-compliance to Proposition 65 are steep, they label all products that qualify for the warning.
A Proposition 65 warning can mean either 1) that the amount of exposure to the listed chemical is above the risk threshold, or 2) the manufacturer would rather exercise caution and label any product containing a listed chemical.
There is no penalty for providing an unnecessary warning, it is better to be safe than sorry.
Proposition 65 became law in November 1986, when California voters approved it by a 63-37 percent margin. The official name of Proposition 65 is the “Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986.”
Learn more about how Proposition 65 warnings can help California consumers protect their health.