Fake Toothpaste

Guide Note

In May of 2007, U.S. consumers were told to avoid toothpaste manufactured in China, as some tubes were found to contain diethylene glycol (DEG), a poisonous chemical used in antifreeze. Several of the contaminated toothpastes were marketed under names very similar to popular American toothpaste brands, causing some consumers to confuse them for trustworthy products.

Fast Facts

1. No injuries or illnesses due to contaminated toothpaste were reported
2. Colgate is the #1 selling toothpaste in the United States
3. Fake Colgate toothpaste was found in Maryland, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania
4. Fake Colgate toothpaste box says it was manufactured in "SOUTH AFRLCA"
5. The counterfeit boxes misspell ""isclinically" and "South African Dental Assoxiation"

In June 2007, customers were warned not to purchase Colgate toothpaste labeled as being manufactured in South Africa. The company confirmed that it does not import products from South Africa, meaning that the toothpaste was counterfeit. The company said that it was working with the FDA to find the parties responsible for the counterfeit toothpaste.