July 23, 2025 | Baku
Following Argentina’s decision to ban the sale of “Colgate Total Clean Mint” toothpaste due to health concerns, questions have emerged about whether a similar move could be expected in Azerbaijan.
Argentina’s National Administration of Drugs, Food and Medical Technology (ANMAT) issued the ban after a surge in consumer complaints about oral irritation allegedly caused by the product. Users reported symptoms such as inflammation, burning sensations, and swelling of the gums. The same toothpaste has also been pulled from shelves in Brazil.
In response to public concern, Azerbaijan’s State Service for Antimonopoly and Consumer Market Control under the President answered an inquiry from Oxu.Az, confirming that no complaints have been received to date regarding the safety of “Colgate Total Clean Mint” in the country.
The agency noted that if concrete evidence is provided showing harm to human health, appropriate measures will be taken in accordance with national legislation.
“Mandatory requirements for non-food consumer goods, including toothpaste, are outlined in technical regulations. Until such regulations come into force, businesses must comply with relevant legal standards regarding product conformity,” the agency stated.
The safety and quality standards for toothpaste sold in Azerbaijan are governed by the interstate standard GOST 7983-2016, which includes clinical, toxicological, and chemical requirements such as pH balance and the product’s impact on enamel and soft tissues of the mouth.
Furthermore, according to Azerbaijan’s Law on Consumer Rights Protection, any goods that may pose risks to human health or the environment must undergo mandatory certification. If a product lacks such certification, including imported goods, its sale and use in the country is prohibited.
However, due to the current suspension of business inspections until January 1, 2026, as mandated by Azerbaijani law, no routine inspections of consumer goods, including toothpaste, are being conducted. The agency may only initiate an investigation if a serious, documented threat to public health, safety, or the national economy is identified.
Consumers are encouraged to report concerns directly through the agency’s official website (competition.gov.az), via email (office@competition.gov.az), or through formal written complaints.
