FDA Warning on Toothpaste from China

WASHINGTONIn conjunction with an import alert to prevent toothpaste containing the poisonous chemical diethylene glycol (DEG) from entering the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned consumers in early June to avoid using toothpaste labeled as made in China. The agency (www.fda.gov) noted DEG, which is also known as diglycol or diglycol stearate, is used in antifreeze and as a solvent. FDA is not aware of any U.S. reports of poisonings from toothpaste containing DEG; however, the agency is concerned about potential risks from chronic exposure to DEG and exposure to DEG in certain populations, such as children and individuals with kidney or liver disease.

After reports of contamination, FDA increased its scrutiny of toothpaste imported from China, sampling products and, in one case, detaining a shipment of incoming toothpaste. FDA also found and tested imported product at distributions centers and retail stores, finding at least one product containing DEG, which was not on the products label. The highest level found was between 3 percent and 4 percent by weight. Calling this an important safety issue, the agency said it was aware of reports of patient deaths and injuries in other countries over the past several years from ingesting DEG - contaminated pharmaceutical preparations, such as cough syrups and acetaminophen syrup. FDA urges consumers and health care professionals to report any adverse effects to the MedWatch system. For more information and a list of brands affected, visit http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2007/NEW01646.html.