Following Food and Drug Administration warnings last week, a Florida importer recalled 170,000 tubes of Chinese-made toothpaste that may contain a deadly chemical.
According to a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) press release, the toothpastes may contain diethylene glycol (DEG). DEG is a thickening agent used in antifreeze. It is a Central Nervous System depressant and potent kidney and liver toxin.
DEG killed 51 residents of Panama a year ago after it was found in Chinese-imported cough syrup.
The recalled toothpastes come in 6.4 ounce and 9 ounce tubes and are titled:
• Shir Fresh Mint Fluoride
• Shir Fresh Mint Fluoride Paste
• Shir Fresh Ice Shir Mint Fluoride Toothpaste
Although no injuries or illnesses have been reported, consumers who have the product are urged to either return it the store they purchased it or discard it.
Consumers who believe Chinese-made toothpaste has made them sick are encouraged to file a complaint with ConsumerAffairs.com and with the FDAs MedWatch division.
