Que Choisir, the Western European nonprofit consumer association (whose name in English means What to Choose), published in its April magazine issue a cover story on cosmetics and hygiene products it claims contain endocrine disrupters.

For the coverage, the organization analyzed 66 items and said it discovered such substances that may affect the endocrine system - which is responsible for making and releasing hormones - in preservatives, sun filters, emollients and antibacterial agents, for instance.

Que Choisir said it found "record concentrations" of endocrine disrupters in products such as Nivea's Dry Comfort and Fresh Natural 48H deodorants and Water Lily & Oil shower gel. In Neutrogena Hand & Nail Cream, Nivea Aqua Sensation moisturizer and Labello lip balm it noted "elevated concentrations."

The story appeared prior to the European Commission publishing its strategy on endocrine disrupters, which will likely take place in May, according to an EC spokesman.