[Sportschosun, Jang Jong-ho] Consumers are growing increasingly concerned after a survey found that a reproductive toxicant was detected in some well-known diaper brands sold in China.
Economic Information Daily reported that, after commissioning a specialized testing agency to examine infant diaper products sold on the market, it found the chemical Formamide in some well-known brands.
Formamide is used as a raw material for medicines, herbicides, pesticides, paper and textile softeners, resins, and solvents for plasticizers. It is classified as a substance that may cause cancer after long-term exposure. In particular, it is known as a reproductive toxicant that can damage specific organs, including the liver and kidneys, after repeated exposure.
According to the report, the same substance was also detected in the blood and urine of some infants during the investigation.
To check whether he had been exposed to Formamide, Economic Information Daily said a reporter wore the diaper overnight and then underwent a blood test. The result showed that the concentration of Formamide in his blood had increased sharply compared with before use.
Experts explained that Formamide can be absorbed into the body through the skin and may have adverse health effects if exposure continues over a long period.
There are also concerns that infants, whose bodies are still developing, may be more vulnerable to toxic substances than adults.
As a result, debate over diaper safety standards is intensifying among Chinese consumers.
Economic Information Daily pointed out that China's current national standards do not separately specify whether Formamide must be tested for in diaper products or set a permissible limit.
In response, some manufacturers reportedly said, "Our products meet the current national standards, and no problems were found in our own testing," while others said, "We are conducting retests."
Jang Jong-ho, bellho@sportschosun.com
