On the subject of toothpaste, your readers may be interested to know that flouride isn't the only ingredient that can damage their health. Sodium lauryl sulphate and propylene glycol are also routinely included in the majority of toothpastes and these chemicals are extremely hazardous too.

Sodium lauryl sulphate is a harsh detergent and wetting agent used in garage floor cleaners, engine degreasers and auto cleaning products. According to the Journal of the American College of Toxicology (vol 2, no 7, 1983), it's a well known skin irritant that is rapidly absorbed and retained in the eyes, brain, heart and liver, and has been linked to cataract formation and poor eye development in children.

Carcinogenic nitrates can also form in the manufacturing of SLS or by its interreaction with other nitrogen bearing ingredients. US Material Safety Data Sheets warn "DO NOT GET IN EYES, ON SKIN, ON CLOTHING. AVOID PROLONGED OR REPEATED EXPOSURE".

Propylene glycol is a form of mineral oil found in automatic brake and hydraulic fluid, and industrial antifreeze. In personal care products, it acts as a humectant, so is included in toothpaste to prevent the paste drying up if the cap's left off. The Safety Data Sheets warn users to avoid skin contact, as this strong skin irritant can cause liver abnormalities and kidney damage.

To obtain dental care products that are totally free of carcinogens and other toxins, and approved by both the Cancer Prevention Coalition and the Children's Health Environmental Coalition, the safest source of which I'm aware is an American company called Neways International. This company make a wide range of personal care, household care and nutritional products which are so safe and effective, they have been recommended by Philip Day in his new book Cancer Why We're Still Dying to Know the Truth (Credence-ISBN 0-955535012-4-8).

It's possible to register as a Neways' wholesale customer for a one off fee of only £10 and readers in the Bristol/ Gloucester area are welcome to contact me for further details. For contacts in other areas, Neways UK office can be reached on info@neways.co.uk or tel: 0180 861764. Janet Dedbury Thornbury, Bristol....