MIT, CMIT, and BIT Preservatives: What You Need to Know
At Common Good, we prioritize transparency and safe ingredients, choosing not to use controversial preservatives like Methylisothiazolinone (MIT), Methylchloroisothiazolinone (CMIT), and Benzisothiazolinone (BIT). While these preservatives are effective at preventing microbial growth in water-based formulas, they come with serious health and environmental concerns, prompting several countries to regulate or restrict their use.
Key Health Risks
MIT, CMIT, and BIT are potent biocides but are also strong allergens and skin sensitizers, causing reactions like contact dermatitis, rashes, and respiratory issues, especially with repeated exposure. MIT was even named "Contact Allergen of the Year" in 2013 due to a marked increase in allergic responses. Studies have also flagged MIT for potential neurotoxic effects, though further investigation is ongoing.
Product Prevalence and Global Restrictions
These preservatives are found in many products, including:
- Household cleaners (e.g., multi-surface sprays, dishwashing liquids, laundry detergents)
- Personal care items (e.g., shampoos, body washes, and conditioners)
Several countries and regions have imposed regulatory restrictions due to health concerns:
- European Union: MIT is banned in leave-on products (like lotions and wipes) and restricted in rinse-off products to a concentration of 0.0015%. This reflects a move to minimize allergic reactions among consumers.
- Canada: Similar to the EU, Canada restricts MIT and CMIT in leave-on products and mandates low concentrations in rinse-off applications.
- South Korea: The Ministry of Health and Welfare banned MIT and CMIT in products like dishwashing liquids following severe allergic and respiratory issues observed in people exposed to high concentrations. South Korea is progressively aligning its standards with EU regulations for consumer safety. China and Japan both align closely to the EU approach, limiting these chemicals to rinse-off products and at very low concentrations.
- Australia and New Zealand: The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia limits MIT and CMIT concentrations to a combined 0.0015% in topical products. Dermatologists in New Zealand and Australia report rising contact allergies linked to MIT, particularly in products like cleansing wipes and shampoos. Both countries actively monitor MIT’s use due to its high sensitization potential.
Environmental Impact
In addition to health risks, these preservatives are toxic to aquatic ecosystems. When washed into waterways, they harm marine organisms even in trace amounts. The EU Ecolabel designates MIT and CMIT as environmentally hazardous, further validating restrictions on their use.
Preservatives We Use at Common Good
Our commitment to safe, eco-friendly cleaning means our products are free from MIT, CMIT, and BIT. Instead, we use gentler, food-grade preservatives like sodium benzoate and phenoxyethanol, which are effective at maintaining product stability without the risks associated with harsher chemicals. We’re here to help you maintain a cleaner, healthier home while safeguarding the planet.
More reading:
- Safe Cosmetics, MIT and CMIT Allergy and Neurotoxicity Risks
- Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) Australia, MIT Restrictions in Topical Products(Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA))(DermNet®)
- EWG on Methylisothiazolinone