JOHANNESBURG - The National Consumer Commission (NCC) has confirmed that its investigation into toxic chemicals found in menstrual products will now also include tampons.
The probe initially focused on sanitary pads and panty liners.
A University of the Free State study found that some menstrual products may contain toxic chemicals linked to potential health complications for women.
READ: New study finds harmful chemicals in popular menstrual products
The NCC is assessing whether suppliers comply with Sections 55 and 24 of the Consumer Protection Act, which require products to be safe and fit for purpose.
Companies have been asked to conduct further tests or submit recent laboratory results for review.
The Commission said it will decide on possible product recalls once the assessment is complete.
"I think it is very important for us to do this as the alarm has been raised by the study. We have a responsibility to act on this," said NCC Commissioner Prudence Moilwa.
READ: 9 sanitary pad suppliers under investigation after study finds harmful chemicals
"The intention of this is to get a study on all the menstrual products," says Moilwa.
She added that because the University of the Free State used a small sample size in its research, the Commission wants to expand the scope of testing.