[Greens-Media] Size Does Matter, Minister

[Franks, Office]

May 19, 2011



Size Does Matter, Minister



Greens Consumer Affairs spokesperson Tammy Franks has questioned the Rann Government over its stance on sunscreens containing nanoparticles, following Victorian advice to schools to go nano-free.



In Victoria schools have been told by the Australian Education Union (AEU) to be wary of sunscreens containing nanoparticles - tiny particles 1000 times smaller than the width of a human hair - while the jury is out on the possible health consequences of the particles.



"Is the Minister aware that size does matter?" Ms Franks asked today.



"Far from benefiting human health, nanoparticles may well have negative health impacts comparable to asbestos," she said.



Ms Franks said the Minister for Consumer Affairs should at least introduce mandatory labelling.



"New European Union laws will introduce mandatory labelling of products containing nano-particles in EU countries and this is definitely something we should consider in South Australia," she said.



"While we wait for further information about the potential dangers of these tiny particles, consumers should at least be made aware of the possible dangers and have the option to buy nano-free sunscreens."

Media enquiries: Lauren Zwaans on 0457 549 938 or 8237 9414


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