Consumer Product Update: Health Canada informs Canadians of potential health and safety risks from buying consumer products and cosmetics online

Health Canada is informing consumers of potential risks from buying products online. In recent years, an increasing number of consumer products and cosmetics from around the world have become available for purchase online, but not all of them meet Canadian laws and regulations. Consumers should be aware that some products found online could be prohibited in Canada , or may have been recalled from the Canadian market for failing to meet health or safety requirements. There is also a risk that products and cosmetics purchased online are counterfeit, or not as advertised.

For the protection of health and safety, it is important that consumers make informed decisions about any consumer products or cosmetics they purchase online. Consumers can take the following steps to protect themselves before purchasing products online: Check the Recalls and Safety Alerts Database for information about products that have been recalled. Consumer products, including children's toys, can be recalled for health and safety reasons. Check the Canada Border Services Agency website to find out about what you can and cannot have shipped into the country. Before using any product or cosmetic, consumers should read and follow age recommendations, warnings, safety messages and instructions.