Here is Question No. 5 a part of our series on UPSC Prelims 2021.
Q5. ‘Triclosan’, considered harmful when exposed to high levels for a long time, is most likely present in which of the following?
a) Food preservatives b) Fruit-ripening substances c) Reused plastic containers d) Toiletries
Answer: (d)
A common component used in consumer products is triclosan, which is added to lessen or stop bacterial contamination. It is a component of certain toothpastes, antibacterial soaps and body washes, and cosmetic products.
According to several short-term animal experiments, thyroid hormone levels can drop after being exposed to large amounts of triclosan. Several short-term animal experiments show that thyroid hormone levels can drop after exposure According to other studies, triclosan exposure may be a factor in the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. To determine the degree of risk that triclosan poses for the emergence of antibiotic resistance, we currently lack sufficient data.
