Health Alert: Banned Toxic Perfume Ingredient Still Found in Metro Manila Stores

Consumer safety advocates have discovered dozens of perfume products containing a dangerous reproductive toxin still being sold across Metro Manila stores, just days before Valentine's Day shopping peaks.

The EcoWaste Coalition conducted spot checks at retail locations across Makati, Manila, and Quezon City last week, identifying 35 products containing butylphenyl methylpropional (BMHCA), a synthetic fragrance ingredient prohibited by the Food and Drug Administration in 2024 due to its harmful effects on the reproductive system.

The products, priced between ₱75 and ₱300, included eau de parfum, eau de toilette, fragrance lotions, and body mists. Many appeared to be unauthorized imitations of luxury brands including Bulgari, Escada, Lacoste, Versace, and Victoria's Secret. The organization's market surveillance revealed these non-compliant products remain widely available in wholesale and retail establishments, despite the FDA's ban on BMHCA-containing cosmetics last year.

The Coalition calls for stricter enforcement of the ban and increased vigilance from retailers and consumers to protect public health from toxins in cosmetic products.