California bill would force diaper makers to list all added ingredients

California Assemblymember Marc Berman introduced AB 1901 to require diaper producers to publish a complete list of intentionally added ingredients both on product packaging and on company websites. After the bill cleared the Assembly with a 68-1 vote, it moves to the state Senate for consideration. Berman’s push stems from personal research that revealed a lack of ingredient labeling on his own child's diapers, prompting advocacy alongside actress and HealthyBaby chief innovation officer Hillary Swank, who voiced concerns about undisclosed chemicals.

Consumer Reports, which helped sponsor the legislation, reported that among 31 disposable diaper brands, only two provided comprehensive material lists, with many using generic descriptors such as “fragrance” to hide numerous components. Studies cited in the bill link substances like phthalates to detectable traces in infants' urine and potential long-term health effects. While the measure stops short of prohibiting any specific ingredients, it aims to give parents the information needed to make informed choices. The proposal now awaits a vote in a Senate committee.