EU: We will ban DMF in consumer products

The European Union (EU) has expressed its intention to ban the use of dimethylfumarate (DMF) in the manufacture of consumer products.

DMF has been proven to provoke allergic reactions in a large number of individuals and is commonly used in products such as furniture and footwear.

Member states of the EU voted in favour of the ban yesterday and upon its implementation, any DMF products still on the market will have to be withdrawn.

Meglena Kuneva, EU consumer affairs commissioner, stated that the ban is designed to "eliminate the serious health risks and in particular the severe allergic reactions suffered by some consumers."

DMF is used to kill moulds in leather products when they are being placed in storage in the long-term or transported through humid climes.

Another chemical that has attracted attention of late is perchlorate, which is used in rocket fuel in the US. The country's Environmental Protection Agency revealed earlier this month that it is considering capping its levels in drinking water supplies.