The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency levied fines against companies claiming their products offered protection against various beasties without getting the EPA sign of approval first, according to the agency.
Photo by Ladislav FaiglVF Outdoor Inc., makers of the North Face, was fined $207,500 for its antimicrobial claims.
"Products that claim to kill or repel bacteria or germs are considered pesticides, and must be registered with the EPA prior to distribution or sale," the organization said in a statement.
While the agency indicated that the products did use "EPA-registered silver-based antimicrobial compounds to protect them against deterioration, they were never tested or registered to protect consumers against bacteria, fungus, mold, and/or mildew."
VF Outdoor Inc. of San Leandro, which produces brans such as Wrangler, Vans and the North Face, claimed "more than 60 shoe products it sold" offer "antimicrobial protection" and inhibit "the growth of 'disease-causing bacteria.'" As a result, the company received a $207,500 fine.
Califone International Inc. of San Fernando claimed headphones they make "prevent the spread of bacteria, mold and mildew for student protection." The comapny received a $220,000 fine.
Saniguard hardware sold by Component Hardware Group Inc., of Lakewood, N.J., and John S. Dull Associates Inc. made unverified claims of controlling the "growth of E. coli, salmonella, staph, and pseudomonas on treated surfaces," garnering the companies a $98,000 fine.
"Consumers should be careful to look for the EPA registration number printed on product labels, and need to follow the label directions for use."
Comments
via Twitter