The Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) and the Health Service Executive (HSE) has recalled the ToothFaerie brand of toothpaste products.
These toothpastes are considered unsafe, and consumers are advised to stop using these products immediately, the recall notice stated.
The products are not believed to have been made widely available. However, the HPRA understands that some of the recalled products may still be available to Irish consumers, including via online supply or at local markets.
The HPRA previously requested retailers to stop selling these toothpastes as they do not meet the requirements of the European Cosmetics Regulations. For this reason, they are considered unsafe.
The products listed an ingredient which is prohibited from use in cosmetic products. This ingredient, sodium tetraborate (borax), may cause damage to the reproductive system which may affect fertility.
One batch was tested and found to contain lead, which should also not be used in cosmetics as it can damage fertility or the unborn child and can cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure.
Some batches of product were tested and found to have microbial contamination at levels which may cause infection or irritation, the recall note said.
No assurance was received that a Cosmetic Product Safety Report had been carried out for the products in question. Such safety reports are a legal requirement for all cosmetics on the Irish market in order to protect public health.
The HPRA also said, unfounded medical claims was made in the product advertising material.
Any retailers who may have stock of these products are requested to remove the products from sale and contact the HPRA at cosmetics@hpra.ie.
Aoife Farrell, HPRA, advised the public not to continue to use these products.
“Unfortunately, these products do not meet the quality and safety requirements that the European legislation requires. These laws are in place to protect the public from unsafe products," she said.
"It is concerning that the products contain a banned ingredient, and also bacteria, at levels that could cause infection. Our advice is for consumers to immediately stop using these products.
"These products were possibly purchased at small local retailers, or ordered online, and were available in six different flavours. If you are concerned about any medical issues, please contact your GP.
"Shoppers are also advised not to purchase any of these products, even if they find them available for sale.”
