Huggies baby wipes defy HK safety standards

(ECNS) -- Products manufactured by US baby care brand Huggies do not to meet safety standards and contain harmful, even carcinogenic substances, according to Hong Kong's consumer watchdog.

Huggies Pure Wipes, produced in the UK, as well as Natural Care Thick (80 pcs) produced in the US, were found to contain methlisothizolinone (MIT), a preservative that may cause a severe rash among babies and young children, alongside another preservative called methylparaben, large amounts of which could affect one's hormone levels.

Meanwhile, Huggies Natural Care Thick (176 pcs), also made in the US, was found to contain phenoxyethanol, for which associated safety limits among babies and young children are currently under review by the European Union, as it could harm the liver.

Hong Kong's Consumer Council on Tuesday warned parents to choose baby wipes carefully after testing altogether 44 types of related products available on the market.

Forty-one percent of baby wipe brands in Hong Kong contain at least one preservative that could cause a severe rash or other health hazards in children.