Scientists warn popular mouthwash could increase cancer risk, company refutes claims

A popular mouthwash brand "could increase risk of" cancer, warn scientists who have raised concerns about its use. However, the company behind the product has hit back, insisting "there is no evidence that Listerine causes cancer".

An expert has advised that "most people should not be using" Listerine Cool Mint flavour mouthwash after a study suggested it might be linked to oesophageal and colorectal cancer. Kenvue, the American consumer health firm that owns Listerine as well as other household names like Johnson's Baby and Aveeno, has countered by stating that the study "lacks several important design controls and adequate rigour".

Belgian researchers at the Institute of Tropical Medicine in Antwerp found that two types of bacteria increased in prevalence following three months of daily mouthwash use. The study identified two bacterial species - Fusobacterium nucleatum and Streptococcus anginosus - both associated with cancer, as being more prevalent in the mouths of those who used mouthwash regularly, reports the Mirror.

READ MORE: Full list of Asda, Aldi and Tesco products recalled over E. coli fears

The research team suggests that alcohol content in the mouthwash could be responsible for boosting levels of these bacteria in the mouth. Professor Chris Kenyon from the university, who was involved in the research, told the Daily Telegraph that using the mouthwash "could increase their risk of cancer and various infections."

The expert also stated: "Most people should not be using it and if they do use it, they should use the preparations without alcohol and limit the use to a couple of days."

In response to the findings, a spokesperson for Kenvue told the Mirror: "Studies on the impact of Listerine on oral health have been published in hundreds of peer-reviewed publications for more than a century, making it one of the most extensively tested oral mouthwash brands in the world. We continuously evaluate the latest science. There is no evidence that Listerine causes cancer."

Previously, the New Jersey-based company had commented to the Telegraph: "Kenvue welcomes and encourages scientific advancements and exchanges to promote everyday health. Based on our initial review, the published trial lacks several important design controls and adequate rigour to make any conclusions about potential impact to human health."