Report Claims Asbestos In Crayons, Says Popular School Supplies Contain Dangerous Chemicals

(CNN) — Parents may want to take a second look at their children’s school supplies this season. The results of lab tests detailed in a report released Tuesday found traces of asbestos, lead and other dangerous chemicals in a number of popular school supplies. The US Public Interest Research Group Education Fund tested dozens of typical classroom materials for toxins. While most were nontoxic, some crayons, markers and binders received a failing grade. Here are some of the products that tested positive for toxic substances: Playskool crayons (36 count) This box set, purchased at Dollar Tree, has traces of asbestos, the report found. The chemical can appear in the talc that is used in crayon manufacturing, according to the report. If ingested or inhaled, asbestos can cause severe damage to a person’s health, including lung cancer and mesothelioma. It is unclear if other versions of the crayons have been affected. “Product and children’s safety are top priorities for Hasbro,” the toy company said in a statement to CNN. Hasbro owns the license to the product. “We are conducting a thorough investigation into these claims.” Dollar Tree spokesperson Randy Guiler said the retail chain is “aware of the report and have since reverified that each of the listed products successfully passed inspection and testing.” EXPO dry erase markers with scented ink The markers, purchased on Amazon, were found to have traces of BTEX, which ...
Source: WBZ-TV - Breaking News, Weather and Sports for Boston, Worcester and New Hampshire - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Health News Asbestos Local TV Source Type: news