China Investigates Diaper Irritant Allegations; Huggies Denies Claims

China's market watchdog has launched an investigation into allegations that a rash-causing irritant was found in diapers from several brands, including Huggies. The probe follows a report by Chinese outlet Economic Information Daily, which claimed that diapers from Huggies, Babycare, and Bibabebe tested positive for formamide, a toxic substance that can also induce dizziness.

However, the three diaper manufacturers have issued statements asserting that third-party retesting detected no formamide. Huggies announced on Sunday that it is taking legal action against what it described as "certain false, misleading and malicious brand-damaging information."

The market watchdog has not provided a timeline for the investigation but stated that more information would be released soon. It remains unclear whether the specific diapers implicated in the report were sold outside of China.

Consumer safety issues involving children are particularly sensitive in China, a concern underscored by the 2008 milk powder scandal that sickened approximately 300,000 children.

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certain false, misleading and malicious brand-damaging information