List of toxic imports keeps growing

[Omaha Steve]

http://www.workdayminnesota.org/index.php?news_6_3451

16 January 2008
WASHINGTON - The list of dangerous imports that contain lead and other toxins is now more than a foot thick.

Here are some of the items to watch out for. This list was compiled by the United Steelworkers:

TEETHING RINGS: Many contain phthalates, a toxic chemical used to soften and smooth plastics

PLASTIC BABY BOTTLES & SIPPY CUPS (labeled as #7 plastics): Many contain polycarbonate, an ingredient in plastic, which can leach bisphenol-A, a suspected hormone disruptor that mimics estrogen. That can cause low sperm count, obesity and neurological problems.

PACIFIERS: Rubber pacifiers or bottle nipples can contain chemical nitrosamines, which can cause cancer. This chemical also is often used in cosmetics and pesticides.

PICKLES: Chinese officials said some contained unsafe industrial wax, formaldehyde and illegal dyes

CANDIES: U.S. FDA recalled some Chinese-made candy after tests revealed it contained the uncertified color additive tartrazine (FD&C Yellow No. 5.). FDA also recalled some candies from Mexico that contained lead.

CRACKERS: Chinese officials said some contained unsafe industrial wax formaldehyde, illegal dyes

VINYL LUNCH BOXES: Some contained lead, used as a softener in the PVC backing.

TOOTHPASTE: Contained diethylene glycol, a poisonous chemical used in anti-freeze.

SEAFOOD: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration found levels of the cancer-causing malachite green and high levels of fluoroquinolones, which can increase antibiotic resistance in humans.

LIPSTICK: Contained banned Sudan I dye, an industrial dye and possible carcinogen.

PET FOOD: Contained suspected melamine-tainted wheat gluten, a chemical found in plastics and pesticides.

DIAPERS: Contained excessive levels of fungus

THOMAS TRAIN: Paint on wooden train contained lead.

VINYL BIBS: Contained lead.

JUICE: Contained unsafe color additives

TIRES: U.S. Up to 450,000 tires made by Hangzhou Zhongce lacked a gum strip, a key safety feature that binds the belts of a tire to each other.

For more information
Visit www.protect-our-kids.org