Reply #22: KoKo01 - very important point

[KT2000]

We should all be wary of imported goods. Now that so much of our everything is made elsewhere, we should realize that we are living with the environmental health standards of other countries. Sometimes that is good and sometimes bad. We do know that many countries are using products that are banned here but are still sold by American companies to other countries.

In addition to the chemicals it takes to make the clothing and shoes, they must also be able to withstand long storage in humid and wet conditions. They are held in warehouses as well as transported across the oceans. They must also be able to deter pests and insects while in storage. Chemicals solve most of those problems.

In the US formadehyde is a useful chemical that is used on almost all textile products - including childrens clothing and bedding. (adult too). There are no standards for the amount they can contain. In Japan, putting formadehyde in underwear and children's clothing is against the law. In Germany there are strict limits on the amount of formaldehyde that can be used in clothing. In the US it is up the the manufacturer.

Another tidbit - Sometimes it is written into trade agreements that certain products such as wool from South Africa must be treated with particular insecticides before they will be admitted into the US.

I had the misfortune of purchasing a bolt of fabric that was transported in pesticide containers. This I did not find out until it was too late. I know that saleswomen at up-scale stores have become ill from newly unpacked merchandise. I know women at a small dress shop who became sick unpacking merchandise to the point they stuffed everything back in the box and returned it.

I hope you take this opportunity to purchase less toxic goods - before you get sick. Believe me - your experience has been a warning. For those who do become ill (permanently and often from central nervous system poisons) no one will be held accountable.