'Triclosan', considered harmful when exposed to high levels for a long time, is most likely present in which of the following?
Show answer
Answer: D. Triclosan is an antibacterial chemical added to toiletries like soaps, toothpastes, handwashes and deodorants. Long exposure to high levels is linked to hormone and antibiotic-resistance concerns.
Watch for: BPA is the chemical tied to plastic containers; triclosan is tied to toiletries.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Wrong because triclosan is not a food preservative.
- B. Wrong because triclosan is not used to ripen fruit.
- C. Wrong because triclosan is not typical of reused plastic containers.
Source to check: US FDA, 'Triclosan: What Consumers Should Know' and its 2016 rule on consumer antiseptic washes
Answer from the official UPSC key. Written and fact-checked by AI against the official key. Spotted a mistake? Report it.