THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1997, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Tuesday, January 28, 1997 TAG: 9701280268
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A2 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: ASSOCIATED PRESS
DATELINE: PAWTUCKET, R.I. LENGTH: 38 lines
Parents who worry their toddlers are picking up germs when they pick up their play things have a new weapon: Hasbro's Playskool division on Monday introduced 15 antibacterial toys.
``Toys are hugged, they're loved, they're chewed on and drooled on,'' said Anna Dooley, vice president of marketing for Playskool. ``But they also roll all over the floor. The dog may take an interest in them. They get passed from one child to another.''
The company said it was encouraged by the reaction to the antibacterial 1-2-3 High Chair it introduced last May. The tray is treated with a process called Microban, which permanently bonds germ-killing pellets to plastic or fiber.
Hasbro officials said it stops mold, mildew, fungi and a range of bacteria that can cause sore throats, skin infections and stomach ailments.
Treated toys include the Roll 'n Rattle Ball, Busy Band Walker and an activity toy shaped like a cellular telephone.
A doctor who questions the need for antibacterial toys said they may tap unfounded parental fears.
``People may think it's a great idea, but I haven't seen anything in the medical literature that says we should be doing this,'' said Dr. David Carter, who practices in Pawtucket, where Hasbro is based.
Hospitals have used Microban products for more than a decade on things like surgical drapes, mattresses and pillow covers.
The antibacterial toys won't eliminate all germs but provide extra protection, according to Glenn Cueman, president and chief executive officer of Microban Products Co. of Huntersville N.C.
``If a toy is covered with gunk, it has to be wiped off - it's common sense,'' Dooley said. ``We're just providing an additional tool for parents to help protect their family.''
KEYWORDS: TOYS ANTIBACTERIAL GERMS