The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has flagged significant violations at Tom’s of Maine’s Sanford, Maine facility, following an inspection earlier this year. The inspection revealed bacteria contamination in water used for toothpaste production and mold near manufacturing equipment.
Among the findings, the FDA noted the presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a harmful bacteria, in water used to rinse equipment and produce Tom’s Simply White Clean Mint Paste. Additionally, Ralstonia insidiosa and Paracoccus yeei, bacteria known to cause infections, were detected in the facility’s water and toothpaste batches. The FDA also found a black mold-like substance in two damp areas and powder residue near a batch of Tom’s Silly Strawberry Anticavity toothpaste.
The FDA’s warning letter stressed that the company must improve its water system, maintain better sanitary conditions, and ensure the building is in proper repair to prevent contamination risks. Tom’s of Maine, owned by Colgate-Palmolive, responded by assuring that it is addressing the issues raised, improving water systems, and ensuring product safety. The company emphasized that it tests finished products before shipment and remains confident in the safety of its toothpaste.
ARY NEWS, GEO NEWS, CNN, BBC NEWS
