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Two separate recent Nigerian studies investigated and found Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in disposable menstrual pads. But what are VOCs? Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are carbon-based chemicals that evaporate easily at room temperature — meaning they turn into gas or vapor readily, releasing molecules into the air. VOCs often have noticeable smells — think fresh paint, new carpet, nail polish remover, gasoline. VOCs range from harmless (plant scents) to harmful (industrial solvents), depending on the type and exposure level. What the Research Says In two separate studies conducted by the Nigerian Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT), high amounts of VOCs were reported to be found in a number of sanitary pads across Nigeria.  In the first research, “ Risk Assessment of Aromatic Volatile Organic Compounds in Disposable Sanitary Pads Sold in FCT and Selected States in Nigeria ,” 65 pad samples were analysed using static headspace gas chromatography. The report stated tha...

As of 2023, palm oil makes up 39.4% of global vegetable oil production suggesting an increasing rise in the demand for and production of palm oil across the globe. This rise in palm oil demands goes beyond West Africa, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand where it is heavily produced and used. This rise in use isn't without a connection to the numerous health benefits of palm oil (refined or unrefined). What is palm oil? Palm oil is an edible vegetable oil extracted from the fruit of the oil palm tree (Elaeis guineensis). It's actually two different oils in one plant: crude palm oil comes from pressing the fleshy fruit, while palm kernel oil comes from crushing the seed inside. It's naturally reddish-orange in its unrefined state (from high beta-carotene content) and semi-solid at room temperature, which makes it useful in food processing. Is Palm Oil Good or Bad? Refined or unrefined (red) Palm oil roughly contains 50% saturated fat. A major meta-analysis of clinical trials ...