Toothpaste containing more than 0.25 per cent by weight of diethylene glycol (DEG) is banned from supply in Australia.

About the ban

Toothpaste containing more than 0.25 per cent by weight of DEG is banned in Australia. DEG is a toxic substance used by some overseas manufacturers as a replacement for glycerine in toothpaste

Complying with the ban

Consumer Protection Notice No. 4 of 2009 sets out the requirements of this ban.

Enforcement

Failure to supply compliant products can result in the ACCC taking action, culminating in:

• infringement notices of $10 200 for companies and $2040 for individuals
• court enforceable undertakings
• disqualification from being a company director
• court action with penalties up to $1.1m for companies or $220 000 for individuals
• recall of product.

See: Penalties & consequences.

Related resources

Banned DEG in toothpaste - Supplier bulletin