Ingredient
Benzene
What is Benzene?
Benzene is a colorless or light yellow liquid chemical that occurs both naturally and as a result of human activities. It is derived from natural sources like volcanoes and forest fires or from industrial processes, which produce it as a byproduct of refining crude oil.
Benzene is used primarily as an intermediate to make other chemicals like plastics, resins, and nylon fibers. In consumer products, it is not commonly included intentionally due to its known health risks, although trace amounts may be present as a contaminant. Scientific research indicates that benzene exposure is linked to various health issues, primarily because it is classified as a carcinogen.
When you see benzene mentioned in relation to consumer products, it often concerns safety levels or contamination rather than it being an intentional ingredient.
Commonly found in: Industrial solvents, Plastics manufacturing, Paint thinners, Gasoline production
What to watch
- Benzene is classified as a carcinogen, linked to increased cancer risk with long-term exposure.
- Exposure to benzene can cause blood disorders, including anemia.
The FDA does not approve benzene for use as an ingredient in food or cosmetics due to its toxicity and carcinogenic nature.
Studies consistently show benzene's harmful effects, particularly its carcinogenicity, with no safe level of exposure being established.
Benzene is not derived from animal sources, so there are no vegan-specific concerns about its origin.
Sources: Benzene (CASRN 71-43-2)
Scout's take
Detected by FDA testing. IARC Group 1 known human carcinogen with no safe exposure level — causally linked to leukemia and other blood cancers.
More from Scout's analyses
The filter reduces benzene by 97%. Benzene is a known carcinogen and can have serious health effects.
from the analysis of Epic Nalgene Outdoor OG Woodsman Water Filter BottleBenzene reduction is at 96.3%, important as benzene is a known carcinogen.
from the analysis of InSinkErator F-2000S Water Filtration SystemFound in 4 products
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