|
Health Canada Issues Updated Warning Re: Contaminated Toothpaste From China |
|
|
|
Written by Staff
|
|
Thursday, 05 July 2007 |
Health Canada has updated its list of toothpastes from China found to contain unacceptable levels of diethylene glycol (DEG). The list now contains 24 DEG-containing toothpastes from China found in Canada and not approved for sale in this country. The DEG-containing toothpastes identified to date are labelled primarily in Chinese and were found in Chinese markets and dollar stores across the country.
A customs alert was issued on Thursday, June 5, 2007 to the Canada Border Services Agency to stop shipments of toothpaste originating from China. Intercepted shipments will not be allowed into Canada until the importer can demonstrate that it complies with the Food and Drugs Act and Regulations.
According to Health Canada, "DEG is a poisonous chemical used in antifreeze and as a solvent that may cause nausea, abdominal pain, dizziness, urinary problems, kidney failure, breathing problems, lethargy, convulsions, coma and even death when ingested. While toothpaste is not meant to be swallowed, it is often swallowed by young children. The potential health risks from chronic exposure to DEG are a particular concern in specific vulnerable populations such as children and consumers with kidney or liver disease."
A complete list of the 24 DEG-containing products that have been found to date can be seen on the Health Canada Web site: http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ahc-asc/media/advisories-avis/2007/2007_80_e.html |
