Germany’s standards agency says vanishing free-kick spray could be a health hazard

FRANKFURT – The German Football Federation says it is not unduly concerned about a technical finding that the vanishing spray used in free-kick situations could be a health hazard.

Germany’s technical inspection agency says the spray that was used at the World Cup in Brazil contains parabens that are suspected of being “hormonally active.” The agency inspects products ranging from elevators to toys for safety.

Parabens are often used as preservatives in cosmetics.

The federation says it had not been aware of the study commissioned by Germany’s biggest-selling newspaper, and it had been in talks with several other manufacturers of the spray. The current spray made in Argentina is considered expensive.

The spray, used in several European leagues, is due to be introduced in the Bundesliga in October.

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