Health Canada removes graphene masks from market

THUNDER BAY – Health Canada has issued an advisory warning Canadians not to use face masks containing graphene, citing potential health risks.

The agency has directed distributors, importers, and manufacturers to stop selling the products pending a “thorough scientific assessment.”

Individuals are advised to immediately stop using masks labelled to contain graphene or biomass graphene, consult a health provider if they have used the masks and experienced any concerns such as shortness of breath, and report any adverse events to Health Canada.

The potential health risks associated with the masks remain uncertain, the agency noted in its advisory. The material is a carbon allotrope reported to have antiviral and antibacterial properties, Health Canada noted.

“Health Canada’s preliminary assessment of available research identified that inhaled graphene particles had some potential to cause early lung toxicity in animals,” it said. “However, the potential for people to inhale graphene particles from face masks and the related health risks are not yet known, and may vary based on mask design.”

Health Canada has requested data from manufacturers to assess potential health risks, it said.

Health Canada issued its advisory after becoming aware that masks containing graphene had been sold “with COVID-19 claims” and used by adults and children in schools and daycares, it said. They may also have been distributed in health care settings.

Any face masks containing graphene will remain off the market until Health Canada has completed a more thorough assessment, it said.