WGBA -Consumer Advocacy Group Warns Shoppers
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This Christmas, before you buy that toy, as always, read the label.
The Wisconsin Public Interest Research Group (WISPIRG), a consumer watchdog organization, is warning consumers that toys with
chemicals known as phthalates are still on store shelves being sold.
This despite a new federal ban on the chemicals, which takes effect early next year. Phthalates are used in making plastic toys more flexible. The ban was passed this past August as part of the "Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008." It's believed, by some, the chemicals can cause reproductive health problems in people.
WISPIRG held a news conference in Green Bay Tuesday morning issuing their warning. Area politicians and physicians including Congressman Steve Kagen, D-Appleton, attended the conference. Kagen, who is also a physician, told reporters the safety of kids is paramount. "They are the people that we are counting on to build this better future for all of us."
So, what's a parent to do? Experts say right now it's buyer beware; read labels, look up toys on-line, even call the manufacturer if necessary.
If you're worried, don't buy it.
However, one note: Not all in the scientific community agree that phthalates are harmful. Even the Consumer Product Safety Commission, a federal agency, told NBC 26 that its scientists are not fully convinced that phthalates can cause health problems. Phthalates have been around for years. They can be accidently ingested by a child if he or she chews on a toy made with the chemicals.
