Market research suggests Americans are suspicious of potentially toxic ingredients

Approximately 64 percent of Americans surveyed said they are were "concerned" ​or "very concerned​" about potentially harmful chemicals and petroleum-based ingredients found in everyday personal care, household cleaning, laundry and baby care products, the company revealed from the study findings.

Specific to the concerns regarding these petroleum-based products were "long term health effects​" (75 percent) and "absorption through the skin"​ (71 percent) - with these issues being cited by all ages, genders and demographic categories.

Further to this, more than half (54 percent) agreed with the statement: "brands should be required to post warning labels on their packages if their products contain petro-chemicals."​

Study assessed attitudes of 1,000 consumers from mixed backgrounds​

The study assessed 1,000 surveyed US consumers' attitudes and concerns to a host of ingredients found in a range of personal care and detergenet products that they used on a daily basis.

"The level of concern voiced by the American public represents a mandate for immediate, sweeping systemic change,"​ said Seventh Generation CEO John Replogle. "It's a big issue with consumers. And it's getting bigger."​

As well as awareness of potentially toxic products, the survey also guaged consumer opinion on a range of other issues, including awareness and knowledge of biobased products.

Awareness of biobased products​

The study also questioned respondents on a range of issues, including awareness of 'biobased' products, which were defined as "products made with renewable agricultural content such as plant, animal, marine or forestry materials​."

The company reported that nearly two-thirds (60 percent) of those individuals that were surveyed said that they are "likely​" or "very likely​" to seek biobased products the next time they shop.

Educating the consumer​

According to the company, the study indicated half of all Americans are unaware that many personal care, household cleaning, laundry and baby care products contains petroleum-based ingredients or petro-chemicals.

"It's time that the consumer products companies lift the veil that has shrouded most ingredients in mystery, allaying unwarranted concern for some, and providing a sound basis for stronger consumer action on others​," said Replogle.