Following a scientific report that some toothpaste brands might cause cancer after long-term use, a consumer advocacy group yesterday demanded that some products be taken off store shelves, while the government urged the public not to panic.
US lab experiments found that triclosan, a chemical widely used as a disinfectant, can react with water containing chlorine to produce chloroform gas.
If inhaled in large quantities, chloroform can cause depression, liver problems and, in some cases, cancer.
Researchers also found that toothpaste produced by well-known brands including Colgate and Aquafresh contain triclosan.
Triclosan exists in a variety of anti-bacterial cleaning products, from dishwashing liquids and handwashing liquids to face cleansers and shampoo, the non-profit Consumers' Foundation (消基會) said yesterday.
To avoid any risk of cancer resulting from use of these products, the foundation called on the government to establish testing mechanisms to protect consumers and regulate manufacturers.
The foundation also demanded that products containing triclosan be removed from shelves for further investigation to clarify whether the possibility of a public health risk exists.
Warning labels and detailed instructions for consumers who feel discomfort after use should be placed on packaging before stores can sell them again, the foundation said.
Despite the foundation's insistence on a product recall, the Department of Health said that restrictions would not be placed on the products because the evidence of risk was not strong enough.
Wang Hui-po (王惠珀), director of pharmaceutical affairs at the department, said the research had not been verified by the US government and that experiments do not mirror what happens in daily life.
"The public need not panic," Wang said.
But Wang suggested consumers ensure that residue of toothpaste, soap or handwash liquids be removed after use to avoid triclosan remaining in the mouth or on the skin.
Major retailers, hypermarkets, convenience stores and drug stores said they would check with the government and manufacturers before withdrawing any products.
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