Korean consumers' awareness of the risks of chemicals in daily consumer products

Abstract

Background Recent tragic accidents due to the use of humidifier disinfectants have caused severe distrust and anxiety over chemicals in consumer products in Korea. Therefore, a survey was conducted to determine consumer opinions about the risk of everyday chemical products used in Korea to assess what information should be provided to consumers via risk communication systems.

Results An online survey investigated the awareness of 10,000 Korean people regarding potentially harmful substances in consumer chemical products. Concern about the ingredients of chemical products was greatest for pesticides, air fresheners/deodorants, and cleaning agents. There was comparatively little concern about toiletries and personal care products. Respondents were aware of the presence of harmful substances from information on mass media and consumer/environmental organizations, and they also obtained information from ingredient lists and product packaging. Many participants thought that products made from natural materials and products with eco-friendly labeling did not contain harmful substances. Participants replied that they used potentially harmful products as little as possible to reduce the risk. Half of all respondents said that the manufacturers and retailers of products should take responsibility for reducing harmful substances in consumer products. Most respondents were not aware that they could make information disclosure requests for ingredients information.

Conclusion There are numerous concerns about chemicals in consumer products, but many people still do not know exactly what risks they pose. There is a need to communicate information about the risks of chemicals using the media and methods that people can understand.