Articles by Varun Subramaniam, M.S., David Andrews, Ph.D.
California’s surface water and sediment are often contaminated with PFAS pesticides
Pesticides that are part of the family of toxic “ forever chemicals” known as PFAS contaminate surface water and sediment in agricultural areas across California, an EWG analysis finds. PFAS...
What is the sunscreen filter bemotrizinol?
For the first time in over 25 years, the Food and Drug Administration is proposing to approve a new sunscreen ultraviolet, or UV, filter for the U.S. market: bemotrizinol , or BEMT. It’s a UV filter...
EWG on FDA’s request for information on SPF and UV protection values
Attached are EWG’s comments asking the Food and Drug Administration consider moving away from SPF testing in people in favor of in vitro UV protection testing, and for the agency should consider...
EWG on FDA’s request for information on butylated hydroxyanisole in food
Attached are EWG’s comments asking the Food and Drug Administration to remove BHA from food. submitted in response to the agency’s request for information.
FDA abandons stricter tanning bed standards, leaving teens at risk
Tanning beds can increase the risk of skin cancer, and the Food and Drug Administration has long warned that children and teens should never use them. Yet the agency has quietly killed a rule that...
Natural and artificial flavor: What's the difference?
If you’ve studied ingredient labels and been mystified by “natural flavor” and “artificial flavor,” you’re not alone. These vague terms suggest a big gap in quality, but the reality is more complex...
FDA reports over 50 PFAS ingredients intentionally added to 1,700 personal care products
Hundreds of personal care products people use every day may contain the toxic “ forever chemicals ” known as PFAS, according to a Food and Drug Administration report . As of 2024, more than 50 PFAS...
EWG comments on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency July 2025 announcement regarding perchloroethylene regulation under the Toxic Substances Control Act
Attached are EWG's submitted comments to the Environmental Protection Agency on their July 2025 announcement regarding perchloroethylene regulation under the Toxic Substances Control Act.
Fluoride in drinking water: What we know about its safety and risks
Fluoride – a natural constituent of teeth and bones – is added to public drinking water supplies throughout the U.S. for its purported dental health benefits. But this process, known as fluoridation...
Hidden ‘forever chemicals’ in popular high-end smartwatch and fitness tracker bands
Looking to give a fitness tracker or smartwatch this holiday season? New University of Notre Dame research reveals a hidden concern: The wristbands on these popular products might expose wearers to...
‘Forever chemicals’: Top 3 ways to lower your exposure
The harmful “forever chemicals” known as PFAS are everywhere – as EWG scientists say, “Wherever we look, we find them.” But reducing exposure to these toxic substances is possible.
EWG comments on the WHO proposed guidelines for PFOA and PFOS contamination of drinking water
The Environmental Working Group submitted comments on the flawed World Health Organization draft guidelines for allowable levels of PFOA and PFOS contamination in drinking water. In October, EWG also...
Flawed WHO report on ‘forever chemicals’ fails human health, EWG scientists find
A draft World Health Organization analysis of the two most notorious “forever chemicals” disregards hundreds of health risk studies, claiming there are too many uncertainties to calculate a safe...
Addressing misinformation on the internet about EWG’s ratings systems
A recent viral social media post about a Bath & Body Works air freshener makes inaccurate and misleading allegations about EWG’s product ratings systems.
Why is cancer-causing benzene widespread in personal care products?
Benzene is a sweet-smelling, petroleum-derived toxic chemical classified by the Environmental Protection Agency as a known human carcinogen – and now it’s being detected in many personal care products...
Fiberglass: A new hidden hazard in mattresses
Fiberglass is now being used as a replacement for harmful chemical flame retardants in some mattresses, according to a new study. But it can also pose its own risks.
Staying safe under the sun: How melanin levels can significantly affect skin cancer risk
Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer worldwide and the most diagnosed cancer in the U.S. Recent research shows that melanin, a pigment found in hair, skin and eyes, can play a...
The good glow: Stay safe with protective sunscreens this summer
Sunscreen helps reduce the risk of sunburns and long-term skin damage, but only one in four products offers adequate protection and does not contain worrisome ingredients, according to an EWG analysis...
EWG Testimony Maine Legislative Document No. 164
The Environmental Working Group submitted testimony to the Maine Committee on Health and Human Services on Legislative Document No. 164, An Act To Establish Maximum Contaminant Levels under the State...