Colorful balloons at festive parties can bring a lively atmosphere, but behind the joy lies hidden dangers. On June 15, the Hong Kong Consumer Council announced that it had tested 35 samples from 19 latex balloon products. It found that more than 90 percent, or 32 samples, contained different types of suspected carcinogenic substances called…

Do the majority of Americans want the government to make sure the products they buy are free of harmful chemicals? Yes, a new survey shows, and they are even willing to pay more to get that assurance of safety. “At a time when most issues are politically polarized, the issue of keeping people safe from harmful…

Butter is essential for pastry baking and cuisine cooking. The Consumer Council in Hong Kong has undertaken tests on 28 samples of butter, margarine, and spreads and found over 80 percent of margarine and spreads contain toxic 3-monochloroproanediol (3-MCPD). One even contains the highest amount allowed, 1,200 micrograms per kilogram. Fortunately, none of the samples…