Christmas Shopping 2007: Let "Made in China" Products Collect Dust on Store Shelves!

Like so many Americans, I have been thinking a lot about China this holiday season-- not China as a country, but "Made in China." Too many news reports have centered on recalls of American products made there. When I heard a report about China's use of lead paint-- not only on toys, but also on other products, I wondered how many "Made in China" products I had in my home. I began an inventory and the further I Iooked the more sickened I felt! My everyday dishes were made there. All my Corning Ware was made there. Most appliances were made there. Just about anything cute or colorful was made there.

My husband's and my whimsical salt and pepper shaker collection turned out to be largely Chinese made. Moose salt and pepper shakers, bought in Alaska; alligators, bought in Georgia; beach goers, bought in Florida--all were made in China. Even silver Empire State Building shakers, bought in New York, were made in China. Out of more than 20 sets bought in the United States, only 3 did not have a "Made in China" sticker on the bottom.

We didn't look to see who made the salt and pepper shakers when we bought them. We didn't notice who made our artsy dishes, either, or who made our appliances. We bought what we liked or chose brands that were familiar. I realize now that we participated in the selling off of America, bit by bit, by allowing ourselves to be enticed by "beads and trinkets" disguised as quality products.

I didn't feel any better after a trip to Wal-Mart. I looked for anything made in the United States. Try it sometime. It is like a scavenger hunt. I did find Anchor Hocking, and replaced all my "Made in China" dishes and cook ware. Does that seem absurd? I thought so, but the thought of trusting manufacturers, who apparently have no regard for customers' personal welfare, seemed more absurd. Thank you Anchor Hocking for safety standards and American-made-products. I enjoy my new dishes and feel confident they will do no harm.

Next, I went to Costco. I looked at every product promoted on the first isle past the front door. This is what I found: a large reindeer decoration, large Christmas wreaths, a 4-tier buffet server, a beverage tub, a large jewelry box, Swiss Gear 2 piece business set " from the maker of the genuine Swiss Army Knife," a Vinotemp International Wine Cellar, a 7-piece Stoneware Bake Set with wrought iron stands, a lighted snowman, a 9' garland, a mini-racer, a decorative sleigh, a Disney Hannah Montana In Concert Stage, a professional power station, and an auto safety kit.

All "Made in China."

What did I find made in the U.S.A? I found a Nordic Ware Bavaria Bundt Pan. That's it! I felt like buying it on the spot.

I journeyed further into the store to investigate other products. Spode dishes are made in China. Lenox porcelain is, too. The Royal Albert "Country Roses" collection is made in China. I loved the box that said "Fine English Porcelain" on its front, but on the bottom were the usual words "Made in China." The packaging seems a bit fraudulent to me, but we do have the option of looking for where products are made. I wonder how many of us actually do.

I am not saying that I do not like products from other countries. It is pure delight to have beautifully made imports from our neighbors abroad. Costco had a lovely set of Polish Mouth Blown Artesian Glass Ornaments packaged in a satin covered box. They are heirloom quality, and I intend to buy them. I saw a glass bowl and platter from Turkey that was beautiful, as were Italian Beaded Ceramic Platters from Italy and a crystal Contessa 24% Lead Crystal Vase from the Czech Republic. I would welcome safely made imports from China, as well, if they are reflective of the country's unique culture.

I am struggling on a number of levels. I hate the fact that so much of our country's wealth is going abroad, particularly to Communist China. I am sorry that I have been so oblivious to the extent of the selling off of America. I read that 800 American businesses are sold to foreigners every year. I am afraid for my children's and grandchildren's future. I am sorry to have taken my country for granted by standing by and letting it happen.

The best I can do is start from here. I am not so easily enticed anymore. Like so many other Americans, I choose to buy American and local products whenever possible. American consumers have power! If enough of us stop buying substandard Chinese-made-products, the American manufacturers will have to up their game or go out of business. That is my greatest wish this Christmas.

(I haven't said anything about toys. My quest for safe toys for my three granddaughters is on-going and a whole other article to come!)