Colgate stands by toothpaste

AUCKLAND: Despite concerns over the use of an antibacterial product in Colgate Total toothpaste, its manufacturers affirm it is safe to use.

ColgatePalmolive has responded in a statement to concerns raised in a recent article on the presence of triclosan in its range of toothpaste — a substance some argue should be used sparingly or not at all.

The agent has been linked to negative effects on the environment and a range of potential health issues.

But a Colgate spokesman said users could be ‘‘fully confident in the safety of our toothpaste for daily use’’.

‘‘It continues to be approved as safe and effective through a rigorous review by the US Food and Drug Administration and is approved by regulatory authorities in Europe, Australia, Canada and New Zealand.

An article published this week called for the product not to be sold over the counter.

Canterbury University senior lecturer Sally Gaw said she did not use triclosan, which is found in Colgate Total toothpaste, baby wipes, soaps, sports clothes and toys.

She said the chemical potentially had important uses but should not be used in homes, as a study had shown the benefits were no better than washing your hands with soap and water.

The toothpaste is one of the few toiletries in New Zealand that still uses triclosan, an antibacterial that was commonly found in soaps, toothpastes and body washes until last September, when the FDA banned it from soap because of possible health risks. — NZME