EDANA statement on the FDA’s tampon bench study findings

EDANA, the international association representing the nonwovens and related industries, which include absorbent hygiene products such as menstrual products and baby diapers, is encouraged by the FDA’s recent tampon bench study results and supports the agency’s continued commitment to science-based research and public health. The results of the study reinforce that “there is negligible toxicological concern from the presence of metals in tampon materials.” ¹

The FDA study:

• Analyzed the metal content and release from 11 tampon products legally marketed in the U.S. using advanced laboratory testing. Release levels were measured under deliberately exaggerated conditions — higher temperature and longer duration than real-world use — to produce a conservative, worst-case estimate.¹
• Researchers examined 11 tampon products across six brands from five manufacturers at various absorbency levels to assess the toxicological risk of metal exposure to tampon users. Metal content data was put into a consistent format to allow comparison with earlier studies.¹
• Concluded there is negligible toxicological concern from metal exposure associated with tampon use, with all detected metals falling within established safety margins.¹
• FDA communications current as of the study's publication date confirm that no metal-related safety concerns have been identified in these products.¹

The study results confirm what the industry has been highlighting in recent years: that methodology and scientific findings must be interpreted in the context of real-world use conditions.

EDANA and its member companies are committed to the safety, quality, and reliability of tampon products. Millions of people around the world rely on tampons every day, and they deserve confidence that these products are safe when used as intended.

Our member companies make product safety a top priority to ensure consumers have access to safe, trusted, and effective tampons. We remain dedicated to providing products that empower people to manage their periods with confidence and live life on their own terms.

EDANA values a transparent and collaborative relationship with the FDA. We are committed to providing the agency with the information it needs to carry out its public health responsibilities based on sound science, and we fully support its continued efforts to protect consumer safety.

Find the FDA study here.

¹ Jin, Y., Eppihimer, M., Alam, M. S., Powell, A. T., Margerrison, E., & Nawaby, A. V. (2026). Do metals in tampons pose a health risk? A toxicological risk assessment study. Toxicological Sciences. https://doi.org/10.1093/toxsci/kfag065