Nonylphenol Ethoxylates (NPE)
npe · nonylphenol ethoxylate · npeo
Surfactants used in textile manufacturing that break down into nonylphenol — a persistent, bioaccumulative endocrine disruptor detected in human blood and breast milk. Restricted to 0.1% in EU textile products; banned in many jurisdictions but residues are found in fast fashion imports.
Concerns
- Breaks down into nonylphenol — a xenoestrogen and persistent organic pollutant
- Detected in human blood and breast milk from clothing contact [Inference]
- EU restricted to 0.1% in textile processing
- Aquatic toxicity — persists in waterways and bioaccumulates in fish
Regulatory flags
- ⚑EU banned in many industrial and consumer cleaning products
- ⚑Endocrine disruptor — REACH severely restricted
- ⚑Persistent aquatic pollutant
Commonly found in
Safer swaps we'd look at
Branch Basics
Branch Basics Concentrate
One bottle replaces your entire cleaning cabinet.
Why it's cleaner
No flagged ingredients in our current review; key ingredients include Coco glucoside, Decyl glucoside, Chamomile extract.
Sources & references
Last researched: April 18, 2026
Research disclaimer: This rating is based on available peer-reviewed research and regulatory assessments at the time of publication. It is not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for personal health or skin concerns.
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