NPR: Mass. Confiscates Suspicious Toothpaste

Mass. Confiscates Suspicious Toothpaste

Massachusetts appears to be the latest state to issue a warning about potentially tainted toothpaste manufactured in China. The Boston Globe reports that health officials confiscated about 160 tubes of toothpaste that may contain diethylene glycol, a substance used in antifreeze. Long-term exposure can lead to kidney and liver problems.

The [MA] state Department of Public Health urged consumers not to use toothpaste falling into these categories:
If it is labeled "Made in China." The US Food and Drug Administration has identified a variety of brands made in China, including Cooldent, Dr. Cool, Everfresh Toothpaste, Superdent, and Oral Bright.
If is labeled as "Colgate" that is made in South Africa. Colgate officials have said their company does not import toothpaste from South Africa. The warning from health authorities does not apply to Colgate toothpaste made in the United States.
If the labeling is not in English.

In June, the FDA warned consumers to stay away from all toothpastes made in China. Morning Edition reported last week that more than 900,000 tubes of the tainted toothpaste were found in U.S. hospitals for the mentally ill, prisons, juvenile detention centers and some hospitals.

9:36 AM ET | 07- 6-2007 | permalink

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