Poisonous Colgate Toothpaste Recalled in NY-NJ-PA-MD

I had a bit of a scare this morning.

Every morning I start my day with John Roberts and Kiran Chetrey, the hosts of CNN's American Morning; they keep me informed. I rarely actually watch the program, I'm usually listening to the audio while I'm preparing to leave for the office. So, I'm in the bathroom, brushing my teeth (with my newly purchased Colgate Whitening) and hear the following teaser "Next on American Morning: Poisonous Colgate toothpaste recalled in several northeastern states. Stay with us for more."

I didn't really think anything of it initially. The program returned from commercial break. "The FDA," John Roberts asserted, "announced today the recall of several batches of Colgate toothpaste sold at discount drug stores in New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Maryland." I immediately stop brushing. I live in Maryland. "The toothpaste," Roberts continues, "contains a poisonous chemical found in antifreeze." Kiran interjected with other news.

"WTF!?!?!", I thought. I had so many questions. WTF do they mean discount drug store? Like...Duane Reade, CVS and Rite Aide or some second-rate mom and pop shop? I immediately did what most 23 year olds would do...I called my mom. If figured if CNN couldn't tell me more details, I was sure she could. I called and she knew exactly what I was referencing. The information she provided, in concert with some internet research yielded the following findings:

• The FDA has warned that consumers should avoid using any dental products manufactured in China. Poisonous toothpaste made in China has affected people in several countries.

• Colgate products with labels reading 'Made in South Africa' should be discarded. These products are counterfeit. You'll find lots of misspellings on the packaging these products come in.

• The FDA has issued an import alert to prevent Chinese toothpaste containing DEG from being sold in the United States and has said it will continue to stop brands of Chinese toothpaste for testing.

• The fake South African toothpaste comes in 5oz. units and contains Diethylene Glycol (DEG). This product is used in anti-freeze and as a cleaning solvent. Colgate and the FDA are working together to find the source of the counterfeit product.

If you live in the Northeast/Mid-Atlantic and brush with Colgate, check your labels. My 6.4 ounce unit of Colgate was purchased at Target, not a drug store. Luckily, I'm safe...I think.

Update: CNN Money