A petition to require warning labels on poinsettia plants and mistletoe sprigs has been denied by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The Commission's review of the technical literature dealing with the toxicity of these plants did not disclose a degree of risk that would warrant its taking regulatory action. The petition, filed by Bob Boehler, Kenmore, New York, on November 12, 1975, asked the Commission to require that these products be labeled as poisonous.
The Commission does not intend that denial of this petition be construed as endorsement of the complete safety of these plants. Poinsettia leaves and mistletoe sprigs, as many other plants, may cause varying degrees of discomfort if eaten and should be placed out of the reach of small children. Mistletoe berries which fall from the sprig should be removed immediately in households with children.
About the U.S. CPSC
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is charged with protecting the public from unreasonable risk of injury or death associated with the use of thousands of types of consumer products. Deaths, injuries, and property damage from consumer product-related incidents cost the nation more than $1 trillion annually. CPSC's work to ensure the safety of consumer products has contributed to a decline in the rate of injuries associated with consumer products over the past 50 years.
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