TradePost Archives > May 7, 2009 > this article

EU bans mold-prevention chemical in consumer products

May 6, 2009
World Trade\Interactive

Effective May 1, the European Union has banned the use of the chemical dimethylfumarate in consumer products such as sofas, shoes and soft toys. No consumer product containing DMF may be placed on the market in the EU, and any such products already on the market must be recalled and withdrawn without delay. This action is an EU-wide emergency measure that supersedes national bans enacted by France, Belgium and Spain. A more permanent regulatory solution will be considered in the future.

According to an EU press release, DMF is used as a biocide to kill molds that may cause products to deteriorate during storage or transportation in a humid climate. Placed in “desiccant” sachets inside furniture or footwear boxes, DMF evaporates and impregnates the product. However, some consumers who have come in contact with these products have complained of severe allergic reactions, including skin itching, irritation, redness, burns and, in some cases, acute respiratory difficulties.