Counterfeit Colgate Toothpaste Found in Northeast Discount Stores

NEW YORK -- The Colgate-Palmolive Co. warned yesterday that counterfeit toothpaste falsely packaged as "Colgate" has been found in several dollar-type discount stores in four states: New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Maryland.

There are indications that the product does not contain fluoride and may contain Diethylene Glycol, an ingredient it has never used in any of its toothpastes, the company said.

The counterfeit toothpaste can be easily recognized because it's labeled as "Manufactured in South Africa." Colgate said it does not import toothpaste into the United States from South Africa. In addition, the counterfeit packages examined so far have several misspellings including: "isclinically", "SOUTH AFRLCA" and "South African Dental Assoxiation."

Colgate said it is working closely with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to help to identify those responsible for the counterfeit product.

In related news, the Grocery Manufacturers Association yesterday issued a statement regarding the announcement of the Coalition Against Counterfeiting and Piracy's (CACP) legislative proposal to combat product piracy and counterfeiting. GMA is a member of the steering committee for CACP.

"Product counterfeiting and piracy pose serious and direct threats to the food, beverage and consumer packaged goods industry, the integrity of our brands, and the health and safety of our customers," said GMA v.p. of international affairs, Emily Beizer, in a statement. "The international flow of these illicit goods constitutes illegal activity that must be thwarted. To that end, we are pleased to support the legislative package announced by CACP today as another positive step forward in this important battle against product counterfeiting and piracy."
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