Whitening agent found in Christmas products

Cheng Jen-hung, chairman of the Consumers’ Foundation, told a press conference that foundation workers conducted tests using ultraviolet light on 21 Christmas products bought randomly from stores in Taipei and found that 20 of the samples showed a fluorescent reaction.

Cheng said that one of the products, a Christmas handbag, contains a “migratory fluorescent substance” — an even greater hazard to consumers if absorbed by the body. The migratory fluorescent substance is known to be a cause of skin allergies and cancer.

Cheng urged related government agencies to regulate the use of fluorescent penetrants as a whitening agent on a variety of products. He added that if manufacturers are allowed to use fluorescent dyes, their products should carry such descriptions so that consumers can exercise their right to choose safer products.

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