On July 16, 2007, Dent Fresh USA Inc. recalled its fluoride mint toothpaste made in China. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced the toothpaste could contain diethylene glycol*, a chemical used in the creation of automobile antifreeze.

Miami-based Dent Fresh USA Inc. warned consumers that its 9-ounce fluoride mint toothpaste could contain diethylene glycol, a known kidney and liver toxin. Diethylene glycol is also a central nervous system depressant.

According to the FDA, there have been no U.S. reported cases of injuries resulting from the use of recalled Dent Fresh Toothpaste containing the chemical, but the agency is still concerned about the effects of long term exposure to diethylene glycol.

The FDA has posted on its website a list of toothpastes containing diethylene glycol. The list is available on the FDA’s Web site.

Source: Reuters, “Another China-made toothpaste recalled: FDA,” July 17, 2007.