Kimberly-Clark Vietnam (KCV) announced on 27/6 that its Huggies diaper samples, domestically available, are free of formamide. This proactive step aims to ease concerns among Vietnamese parents following conflicting regional reports on product safety.
To ensure objectivity, KCV commissioned Intertek, an independent UK testing and quality certification organization, to conduct the analysis. Intertek utilized internationally standardized methods. The tests concluded no formamide residues were present in any of the samples. Formamide is a colorless, liquid organic solvent often used in industry.
KCV affirmed its commitment to quality control through a strict raw material traceability system. The company also pledges full compliance with both Vietnamese and international safety regulations.
The controversy began with an independent investigation by China's Economic Information Daily in mid-June. The newspaper initiated its probe after receiving numerous parent complaints about children experiencing recurring diaper rash and skin irritation. Reporters then randomly purchased various diaper samples from the domestic market for testing.
Analysis results from the Chinese testing agency at that time indicated the presence of formamide and 1,2-propanediol in varying concentrations in products from three brands: Huggies, Bibaby, and Babycare. Following the publication of this information, the China Paper Association and involved manufacturers disputed the findings, arguing that the newspaper's testing methods lacked scientific validity.
Subsequently, Chinese companies conducted independent tests on their products, announcing that no formamide was detected in their diaper samples. Currently, an inter-agency investigation team has been formed by China's State Administration for Market Regulation, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the National Health Commission, and the Disease Control Bureau to verify the allegations.
Le Nga
