It won't be long and the kiddos will be heading back to the classroom. That means parents will be purchasing school supplies. However, some may be toxic.

News 10 from Albany, New York recently reported that there were tests conducted on various 'back-to-school' supplies.

Some of the school supplies that were tested were water bottles, crayons, 3-ring binders, and even markers, which they highlighted could cause birth defects and possibly leukemia.

According to the report, out of the six brands of crayons tested, Playskool crayons were noted to have contained asbestos. Two samples of green crayons were tested.

Asbestos is a fairly well-known carcinogen which can lead to serious health conditions to include, but not limited to, mesothelioma and lung cancer.

Here's what they found:

  • Lead in recently-recalled children’s water bottles (Base Brands children’s Reduce Hydro Pro Furry Friends water bottle, once sold by Costco, and GSI Outdoors children’s water bottle, once sold by L.L. Bean). The Consumer Product Safety Commission recalled both of these items because they contained high levels of lead. Lead can cause severe developmental and behavioral problems.Benzene in Board Dudes brand markers. Benzene is a known carcinogen linked to leukemia, and disruptions in sexual reproduction and liver, kidney and immune system function.
  • Benzene in Board Dudes brand markers. Benzene is a known carcinogen linked to leukemia, and disruptions in sexual reproduction and liver, kidney and immune system function.
  • Phthalates in the Jot Brand blue 3-ring binder. The levels of phthalates in the binder are considered unsafe for children by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. High levels of phthalates can lead to birth defects, hyperactivity, and reproductive problems.

 

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