A couple of weeks ago, we talked about the pet food scare and the resulting fallout as it pertains to human food and food ingredients. We noted that food products imported from other countries were very lightly scrutinized and that less than 1% of all our imported food products actually gets inspected at U.S. Ports of Entry. Now we find out that toothpaste made in China can be a danger to our health.
A recent article carried on the AP wire indicated that the U.S government has issued warnings to American consumers about toothpaste made in China and shipped to the U.S. It appears that the Chinese manufacturers are using an ingredient called diethylene glycol (DEG) in the toothpaste formula. Diethylene glycol is being added as a sweetener and thickening agent, BUT it is also the key ingredient in antifreeze! Why is DEG being added to toothpaste being made in China? For the same reason we are importing other food products and ingredients from China – it is CHEAP.
The FDA has found concentrations of DEG in toothpaste from China to be as high as 3 to 4%. The agency indicates that chronic exposure to DEG can be particularly harmful to young children and to those who have liver and kidney problems.
Bottom line on this issue: check your toothpaste tube to see where it was manufactured. If it was not made in the USA, then toss it in the trash.
In another development, a nationally syndicated radio program had a long segment last week dedicated to the discussion of food safety, especially foods and food ingredients from other countries. They specifically talked about fish and other seafood products derived from Asia. It appears that some seafood products are being produced in ponds that are “fueled” by untreated waste products, including human waste. These producers are using high levels of antibiotics and other chemicals to help control waste related problems and to keep the fish and other seafood “healthy”. These food products are being shipped into the U.S. and are sold on the market without the consumer being aware of their origin, in many cases.
Now, does this mean that all food products from other countries are dangerous or contaminated? Absolutely not. But, it does mean that we should be aware as consumers of where our food comes from and how it is produced. We have a responsibility for our own safety. Again, bottom line is we need to ask about the food products we buy. Know as much as possible about where they come from and how they were produced. Ask the grocery stores and restaurants you frequent where they get the products from. What do they really know about the products they are selling to you?
-Allen Williams, CEO, Tallgrass Beef Company
