‘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 ✓ UPSC's answer
Why the answer is (d)
• Triclosan is an antibacterial and antifungal agent added to toiletries — toothpastes, soaps, hand sanitisers, deodorants and mouthwashes — option (d).
• Long-term high exposure is linked to hormone disruption, antibiotic resistance and harm to aquatic life, so the US FDA banned it from consumer antiseptic washes in 2016.
• It is not a food preservative (a), a ripening agent like ethylene or calcium carbide (b), or a plastic additive like BPA (c).
• Hence option (d).
Why the other options are wrong
- (a) Food preservatives
- Triclosan is not used as a food preservative.
- (b) Fruit-ripening substances
- Fruit ripening uses ethylene/calcium carbide, not triclosan.
- (c) Reused plastic containers
- Plastic-container concerns involve BPA, not triclosan.
Asked in the GS Paper I of the UPSC Civil Services Preliminary Examination 2021, held on 10 October 2021. Question and answer key: Union Public Service Commission. Explanation: UPSC Answer Check.