You May Have Purchased Toxic School Supplies

Tests recently performed on many 'back to school' items including crayons, water bottles, 3-ring binders, and markers could cause leukemia, birth defects, and potentially severe behavioral and developmental problems. The results of the test were released on Tuesday and some of the products could have been sold locally,

According to News10 ABC, of the six brands of crayons tested, asbestos was found in Playskool crayons sold at Dollar Tree. The lab tested two samples of the green crayon.

Asbestos is a known carcinogen and can lead to serious health conditions, including lung cancer and mesothelioma.

Other results include:

• Lead in recently-recalled children’s water bottles (Base Brands children’s Reduce Hydro Pro Furry Friends water bottle, once sold by Costco, and GSI Outdoors children’s water bottle, once sold by L.L. Bean). The Consumer Product Safety Commission recalled both of these items because they contained high levels of lead. Lead can cause severe developmental and behavioral problems.
• Phthalates in Jot brand blue 3-ring binder. The levels of phthalates in the binder is considered unsafe for children by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. High levels of phthalates can lead to birth defects, hyperactivity, and reproductive problems.
• Benzene in Board Dudes brand markers. Benzene is a known carcinogen linked to leukemia, and disruptions in sexual reproduction and liver, kidney and immune system function.

A spokesperson for Playskool's parent company, Hasbro, told the Chicago Tribune it is conducting an investigation into the claims.