France has ordered the withdrawal and recall of 15 types of ultra-thin condoms sold in the European Union market due to a manufacturing defect. It was reported that the decision covers approximately 7 million products.
The French consumer watchdog, the General Directorate for Competition Policy, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF), announced that the defects were identified in products manufactured by the Malaysia-based Richter Rubber Technology. According to officials, the issue could weaken protection against sexually transmitted infections and unwanted pregnancies by increasing the risk of the condoms tearing or bursting during use.
The French ministerial decree dated October 22 was published in the Official Gazette on October 30. The decree stated that some users had reported condom ruptures and unwanted pregnancies linked to the sampled batches.
Officials announced that laboratory tests identified defects linked to fluctuations in the thickness and quality of the latex film used during production. It was stated that the tested products failed both pressure and burst volume tests, as well as checks for the absence of holes.
SALES AND IMPORTS SUSPENDED FOR ONE YEAR
The French government has suspended the sale and import of all ultra-thin condoms produced with the faulty manufacturing process for a period of one year. It was noted that this period could be extended if necessary.
The decision was made following an investigation conducted after the initial wave of recalls launched during the summer months. Approximately 260,000 condoms had been recalled between late May and early August. It was reported that eight users have reported condom ruptures since the initial recalls.
The recall is not limited to France. It was reported that the affected products were distributed to the European market under different brand names. French authorities have requested that the relevant products and batches be removed from points of sale and that products in the possession of consumers be recalled.
Officials advised individuals who have used the affected products to get screened for sexually transmitted infections and to take a pregnancy test in the event of a delayed period. Concerned consumers were advised to consult their doctors or visit free sexual health screening centers.
The DGCCRF called for adverse events, such as the tearing or puncturing of products during use, to be reported via the government's health incident reporting platform. The agency stated that it would monitor the effectiveness of the withdrawal and recall process.
News Source: 12punto
