There's a fresh warning over public health after testing of several imported cosmetics, including Hashmi Surmi Special and Hashmi Kohl Aswad eyeliners, revealed an 84 per cent lead content.
The products were also found to contain high levels of dangerous metals such as arsenic, cadmium, chromium and mercury.
NSW Minister for Better Regulation Matt Kean says concerns were raised when three children from the same family became sick.
“Doctor’s tested the children and found elevated blood lead levels and reported it to the local Public Health Unit in Western Sydney,” Mr Kean said.
Some of the product packaging even specifically states that no lead is present. Source: NSW Government
“An investigation indicated the health concerns were likely to have been caused by one of the Hashmi brand eyeliners.”
According to the Minister, the eyeliners were manufactured in Pakistan.
NSW Fair Trading has also referred the products to the Australian Border Force for investigation.
The warning comes after NSW Fair Trading inspectors visited 83 shops in the Sydney area and removed stocks from 12 shops selling the eyeliner products.
Inspections took place in Granville, Harris Park, Penrith, Wentworthville, Pendle Hill, Rooty Hill, Mount Druitt, St Mary's, Seven Hills, Blacktown, Stanhope Gardens, Parramatta, Westmead, Toongabbie and Doonside.
“Inspections have so far shown that the Hashmi brand eyeliner products are sold predominantly in stores stocking Indian and Pakistani goods,” Mr Kean said.
NSW Fair Trading will look at whether additional cosmetic products may also be failing to meet Australian standards. Source: Supplied
It's not the first time warnings have been issued about such products. Canada has previously issued warnings about the products and kohl is not approved for cosmetic use in the United States.
'Total disgrace'
“Some of the product packagings even specifically state that no lead is present, which is a total disgrace.
“I’m absolutely appalled by this as we know that use of cosmetics containing lead can have long-term health effects, including brain and kidney damage, in both adults and children.”
However, Abdul Majid Yousfani, Consul General of Pakistan in Sydney says that while he is not aware of the issue with the specific product, it's the basic responsibility of the importer to make a declaration that the products meet the requirements of Australian standards.
"The importing company has responsibility for meeting the Australian requirements," he told SBS Urdu, adding that some products are also brought in without declaration in personal luggage.
Heavy fines
Traders are also being warned that supplying products that do not comply with the Mandatory Standard is an offence under the Australian Consumer Law, punishable by a fine of up to $1,100,000 for a body corporate or $220,000 for an individual.
NSW Fair Trading will also look at whether additional cosmetic products may also be failing to meet Australian mandatory standards.
“Fair Trading inspectors will also continue working closely with NSW Health to identify if and where the products are being sold, and warn of the health risks,” Mr Kean said.
NSW Health advises anyone with these products should cease using them immediately. Source: Supplied
People who have the products are being advised to cease using them immediately and seek medical advice from their local doctor as soon as possible.
SBS Urdu has reached out to the company concerned for comment.
