What does a Prop 65 warning label mean and why is it even necessary?Updated 7 months ago

Prop 65 doesn't ban or restrict the use of chemicals but instead encourages businesses to reduce or eliminate harmful chemicals from their products to avoid having to provide warnings. The warnings are based on "safe harbor" levels, which are set 1,000 times lower than a level that has been shown to cause harm. These warnings are not an indication that a product is unsafe, but rather a tool to help consumers be aware of potential risks. Notably, you would see the same warning on a bag of potato chips that you would see on life-saving but highly toxic drugs like chemotherapy.

Everyday activities can expose us to various chemicals listed under Proposition 65. These chemicals can be found in many places, including household products and food, where they are often naturally occurring elements. They are also present in manufacturing and construction materials or can be created as byproducts of common actions, like driving a car or cooking vegetables. Because these chemicals are so common, everyone is exposed to some level of risk from them.  

Of course, some chemicals are added on purpose because they seemingly add value to a product, whether it’s improved appearance, taste, functionality or because it’s less expensive to produce with that chemical. Proposition 65 has played a major role in prompting businesses to find ways to reduce these chemicals in their products.