Why do household products have to be tested?
Years ago, there were no laws protecting the public from hazardous side effects of drugs, cosmetics, and other products. Companies were not required to completely test each product for dangerous side effects. People got sick, were injured, and many even died.
For example, in the early 1930s, a new mascara product called Lash Lure was on the market and was used by women around the country. Unfortunately, using this product had dangerous side effects. Several women were blinded from the cosmetic, and one even died.
Around the same time, a new "wonder drug" known as sulfanilamide killed more than 100 men, women, and children. Unknown to the public, this drug contained a deadly poison, the same chemical used in antifreeze.
Because neither of these products had been adequately tested, human lives were tragically altered. The public became outraged. In response, the U.S. Congress passed the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act of 1938 requiring food, drugs, and cosmetics be safe for human use before they could be sold to the public. Today, you and your family can buy shampoo, makeup, deodorant, and medicines with confidence, knowing that they are safe.