Consumer Reports, the magazine published by the nonprofit organization Consumers Union, recently issued a report regarding liquid laundry detergent packets – also known as laundry pods – stating they present a “lethal risk” to adults with dementia. These highly concentrated detergent packets may be mistaken for food by adults with dementia.
Deaths related to ingesting liquid detergent packets
Consumer Product Safety Commission statistics indicate that, between 2012 and early 2017, there were eight deaths related to ingesting liquid detergent packets. Of those reported deaths, six individuals were adults with cognitive difficulties and two were children.
Toxic laundry pods resemble candy
Liquid laundry packets are colorful, soft, and, in their packaging, can easily be mistaken for candy or soft food. Young children can be drawn to the laundry pods thinking they are a playful toy or a sugary treat. Studies indicate that these liquid detergent packets are more toxic than other forms of detergents; households with children younger than six years of age are encouraged to use traditional detergent instead of the pods.
Convenient, effective, yet hazardous to your health
Liquid laundry detergent pods were introduced to the mainstream market in 2012, creating a new product category. Soon thereafter, Consumer Reports called upon manufacturers of these laundry detergent pods to make the liquid packets safer for consumers.
According to the American Association of Poison Control Centers (AAPCC), during the first half of 2015, there were 6,046 reports of children age 5 and under ingesting, inhaling, or getting liquid laundry detergent in their eyes or on their skin. While some manufacturers have implemented changes to the packaging of the laundry pods and the pod itself, the product still poses serious health risks.
Laundry pods are a growing market
According to market research company IRI, in a recent 12-month period, sales of laundry pods reached $1.2 billion, representing 17 percent of all laundry detergent sales. Tide Pods and related products, manufactured by Proctor & Gamble, represent 79 percent of the market.
Experienced legal team helps victims recover damages
If you or a loved one has suffered physical injury or death due to accidental ingestion of liquid laundry packets, we are here to help. The New Jersey personal injury attorneys at Lomurro Law are experienced and knowledgeable in product liability law. We have been representing injured victims for more than 130 combined years and have a demonstrated track record of success. Contact a member of our team at 732-482-9285 or online to arrange a confidential consultation to discuss your case and possible next steps. Lomurro Law has convenient office locations in Freehold and East Brunswick.