Imported Toothpaste & "Thomas and Friends" Toys Recalled

A statement issued on Thursday, June 14, 2007, by the Colgate-Palmolive Co. said that 5 ounce tubes of fraudulent toothpaste, sold in New Jersey, New York, Maryland, and Pennsylvania, have been recalled, according to the Associated Press.

The toothpaste, sold under a Colgate label at various discount stores, may contain a chemical called diethylene glycol- an ingredient common to antifreeze. Doug Arbesfeld, and FDA official said tests fount the chemical the tested toothpaste. "We are aware that toothpaste is something that has been counterfeited in the past", adding "We don't want to alarm people unnecessarily."

The toothpaste in question was imported from South Africa, which is printed on the box. The toothpaste, which includes the Regular, Herbal, Gel, and Triple flavors, contain multiple misspellings. "Colgate does not import toothpaste into the United States from South Africa" a spokesman for the company announced. They made it clear that they have never used the diethylene glycol in any of their products ever.

There have not been any reported illnesses, but concerned consumers can return any boxes they feel are fraudulent for a full refund, and can call the toll free Colgate-Palmolive number with questions at 1-800-468-6502.

On Wednesday, June 13, 2007, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has voluntarily recalled more than 1 million "Thomas and Friends" wooden railway toys because some of the toys may contain lead, according to Reuters. The sets, which include buildings, and other train set parts, were sold between January 2005 and June 2007. The toys, made in China, add to the lengthening list of food, drugs, and other products imported from that country that have created health scandals.

Lead is a toxic chemical, especially for small children under 6 who tend to put their toys in their mouths. Although no illnesses have been reported, the CPSC advises parents to take away the toys immediately.

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