Report Finds Toxins Common in Products for Children, Pets

Car seats, backpacks, pet toys contaminated with lead, PVC, arsenic, other toxins

By Lisa Wade McCormick, ConsumerAffairs.com

Hundreds of common household products -- including children’s backpacks, car seats, and even pet products -- are tainted with lead, arsenic, and other toxins, according to test results released by a national environmental group.

Tests conducted by HealthyStuff.org -- part of the Michigan-based Ecology Center -- also found toxins in lunch boxes, pencil bags, purses, and several new and used vehicles.

The group tested the products for such chemicals as lead, brominated flame retardants (BFR), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), cadmium, arsenic and mercury, which studies have linked to birth defects, impaired learning, liver toxicity, and cancer.
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Experts Warn About Electronic Cigarettes

E-cigarettes could increase nicotine addiction

By James Limbach, ConsumerAffairs.com

A laboratory analysis of electronic cigarette samples has found that they contain carcinogens and toxic chemicals such as diethylene glycol, an ingredient used in antifreeze, according to the Food and Drug Administration.

Electronic cigarettes, also called "e-cigarettes," are battery-operated devices that generally contain cartridges filled with nicotine, flavor and other chemicals. The electronic cigarette turns nicotine, which is highly addictive, and other chemicals into a vapor that is inhaled by the user.

These products are marketed and sold to young people and are readily available online and in shopping malls. Additionally, they do not contain any health warnings comparable to FDA-approved nicotine replacement products or conventional cigarettes. They are also available in different flavors, such as chocolate and mint, which may appeal to young people.

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~Sandy G.