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FDA Identifies Bacterial Issue with Tom's of Maine Toothpaste

Employing bacteria for toothbrushing is not a recommended approach for maintaining good oral hygiene.

FDA Declares Bacterial Issues in Tom's of Maine Toothpaste
FDA Declares Bacterial Issues in Tom's of Maine Toothpaste

FDA Identifies Bacterial Issue with Tom's of Maine Toothpaste

In a recent development, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has sent a warning letter to Tom's of Maine, a well-known toothpaste company, regarding the presence of multiple bacteria in their products and one of their factories.

CBS reported on the issues facing Tom's of Maine, a company that has been in business since 1970 and was eventually grown into a $100 million business. The company has always been committed to testing finished goods before they leave their control.

However, the FDA's inspection found issues with the water system and cleanliness at Tom's of Maine's factory in Sanford, Maine. As a result, the FDA's warning letter encourages the company to maintain and monitor its water system to ensure it consistently produces water suitable for pharmaceutical use.

The FDA's inspection revealed the presence of several harmful bacteria, including Paracoccus yeei, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Ralstonia insidiosa, in water samples from the factory. These bacteria can potentially cause infections, particularly in the blood and lungs.

For instance, Wicked Cool! Anticavity Toothpaste from Tom's of Maine was found to contain Paracoccus yeei, while Tom's Simply White Clean Mint toothpaste was found to contain Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

In response to the FDA's warning, Tom's of Maine has engaged water specialists to evaluate their systems at Sanford, Maine. The company has also implemented advanced filtration and purification systems, including reverse osmosis and UV disinfection, at their facility to comply with FDA water quality standards.

Additionally, Tom's of Maine has been bought by Colgate-Palmolive in 2006. Despite the recent issues, Tom's of Maine remains fully confident in the safety and quality of their toothpaste. The company has also emphasised that their water testing shows no issues as of the current situation.

Tom's of Maine is currently working with the FDA to remedy issues raised in their May inspection. The company has also implemented additional safeguards to ensure compliance with FDA standards.

Notably, a black mold-like substance was found inside Tom's of Maine's facility where toothpaste is produced. The FDA has emphasized the importance of keeping water sources clean, as it is a major ingredient in many of Tom's of Maine's products.

The FDA's warning letter to Tom's of Maine underscores the importance of maintaining high standards of hygiene and cleanliness in the production of consumer goods, particularly those intended for oral use. Tom's of Maine, as a company committed to quality and safety, is working diligently to address these issues and regain consumer trust.

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