According to industry, available scientific evidence regarding oxybenzone’s and octinoxate’s effects on coral does not support their removal from the OTC sunscreen drug monograph’s list of permitted UV filters, and FDA is fully compliant with federal environmental laws, contrary to the Center for Biological Diversity’s suggestions. FDA says the petition raises complex issues requiring extensive review.
The Center for Biological Diversity will have to continue waiting for FDA’s decision on its petition seeking a ban on oxybenzone and octinoxate use in sunscreens, a request that drew strong opposition from industry groups.
According to FDA, the petition – submitted by CBD in late May – “raises complex issues requiring extensive review and...