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Last year in Japan, the book "Do Not Buy" sold 1 million copies within just three months of its release, starkly revealing the health hazards prevalent in everyday products. Reading it will enlighten you on what items to avoid purchasing!
Author: Sun Xiaoping
"Do Not Buy" is compiled from serialized articles published since 1996 in the magazine "Weekly Golden Friday," which does not carry advertisements and relies solely on subscriber support. The authors categorize closely related daily necessities into food, beverages, detergents, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and sundries, citing research reports to expose the harmful ingredients in representative products from many well-known Japanese manufacturers, labeling them as "all harmful and no beneficial." The book lists about 90 products, including the company names, product names, photos, ingredients, and contact information, enabling consumers to directly inquire or provide feedback to the manufacturers.
Some say "Do Not Buy" is a manifesto from the media representing consumers against big corporations. Others view it as a guide for Japanese consumers to reflect on their purchasing habits. With the rise of global environmental and health awareness, consumers need to be conscious and develop habits to scrutinize product ingredients, refusing to buy products that harm the environment and human health and safety, rather than being swayed by advertising. Drawing on the principles revealed in Japan's "Do Not Buy," Taiwanese consumers can be more vigilant when purchasing food, beverages, cleaning products, cosmetics, and various sundries:
@Food Category@ The Attack of Environmental Hormones in the Kingdom of Instant Noodles
Taiwan's "Consumer Monthly" once investigated the nutritional content of bowl instant noodles, finding zero Vitamin A and C, with very little of other vitamins. Instead, the salt content was twice the daily limit of 3 grams recommended by the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Nutrition, and the chemical seasoning glutamic acid soda was a full 1 gram. Regular consumption of instant noodles can lead to vitamin deficiencies, mineral shortages, excessive salt intake, and taste disorders caused by chemical seasonings, among other nutritional imbalances. More notably, the containers for bowl instant noodles are mostly made of polystyrene, which deforms when heated. To prevent deformation during heating, manufacturers add the antioxidant BHT as a stabilizer. BHT is a carcinogen that can cause liver enlargement, chromosomal abnormalities, and reduced fertility. Japanese scientists have conducted experiments adding trace amounts of BHT (0.1%) to feed given to mice, resulting in some offspring being born without eyes or with deformities. Another issue is that most instant noodles are fried, and the oil also contains BHT, so when hot water is added, harmful substances dissolve from both the noodles and the container.
Even more alarming is the dissolution of styrene monomers. Pouring water into a styrene cup can dissolve 6-9 ppb (parts per billion). Experiments by Mie University's medical department in Japan showed that giving this water to white mice resulted in 4 out of 7 developing cancer. Adding hot water increases the dissolution to 51 ppb. A paper from the University of Tokyo's "Independent Lecture" points out that a daily intake of 0.001 mg of styrene monomer per kilogram of human body weight is dangerous. The industry acknowledges that a bowl of instant noodles can dissolve 0.015 mg, which is one-fourteenth of the dangerous amount, raising concerns considering individual differences in constitution.The carp in Tokyo's Tama River have abnormally atrophied seminal vesicles due to the influence of environmental hormones. One such hormone, called phthaloyl, is found at a concentration of 1.6 ppb in the downstream waters of the Tama River. However, the concentration in bowl-style instant noodle soup is as high as 1,100 ppb, which is 688 times the pollution level of the Tama River. The authors of "Don't Buy It" believe that "calling instant noodles a national ruin food is not an exaggeration." They suggest that noodle lovers should choose noodles with fewer additives for better health.
@Vitamin Drinks That Don't Boost Energy or Enhance Vitality@
A survey once asked Japanese housewives, "If your husband is tired, how do you help him recover?" Surprisingly, the majority responded, "Give him a vitamin drink," rather than "Let him rest properly." However, all vitamin drinks sold in Japan that claim to boost energy and vitality contain caffeine without exception. Some products even add alcohol, with alcohol content as high as 12%, and these are still displayed on the shelves as "vitamin drinks." There was a case where a truck driver drank three bottles of a vitamin drink claiming to "boost energy" to stay awake while driving late at night. He lost control on the Meishin Expressway, collided with the car in front, causing a chain reaction that set five cars on fire. The driver died on the spot. Due to the presence of alcohol in his system, the police initially mistook it for a drunk driving accident. Dr. Tamura Toyoyuki from a Japanese university conducted an experiment where he gave vitamin drinks to white rats to see how long they could swim in water, testing whether the drinks could actually boost "energy." Surprisingly, the rats that drank tap water swam longer than those that consumed vitamin drinks. To foreigners, it seems incomprehensible why Japanese people drink vitamin drinks. "If you need to supplement nutrients, just take vitamin pills. Why dissolve them in water to drink?" Even more absurdly, an employee from a pharmaceutical company once leaked that the cost of producing these vitamin drinks is only 3 yen, yet they are sold to consumers at prices hundreds or even thousands of times higher. It seems Japanese men who drink vitamin drinks should reconsider their choices.
@Potentially Hazardous Ingredients in Cleaning Products@
Turn on the TV, and during commercial breaks, you'll see various cleaning products advertised, such as shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers. The soothing voiceovers and glamorous models tell you how these products moisturize your skin and protect your hair. But what are the main ingredients in these cleaning products that come into daily contact with our skin? The authors of "Don't Buy It" remind consumers to watch out for the following ingredients:
EDTA: A precipitation inhibitor and water softener that can irritate the skin and mucous membranes, causing allergic reactions. Improper intake can lead to calcium deficiency, low blood pressure, and reduced kidney function.
Sodium Benzoate: When absorbed by the body, it may impair gastrointestinal function. It has antibacterial properties, indicating a certain level of toxicity.
Sodium Sorbate: Reports suggest it may be carcinogenic.
Paraben: A bactericide and antifungal agent that can cause liver damage, contact dermatitis, and has carcinogenic potential.
Fragrances: May cause allergic reactions.
Synthetic substances like bactericides, preservatives, and stabilizers: Primarily used to extend the shelf life of products, preventing them from spoiling.
Surfactants: Widely used in laundry detergents and dishwashing liquids.TAR Pigment Blue No. 1 and Yellow No. 4: May be irritating and potentially carcinogenic.
A well-known Japanese brand of shampoo contains up to 30% of an anionic synthetic surfactant called polyoxyethylene lauryl ether, which has strong cleansing power and is used to clean bathtubs. However, it is highly toxic and may cause skin diseases and internal organ disorders. Dr. Ozu Wangchun, director of the Tokyo Institute of Beauty Science, points out that facial cleansers made from chemical substances can damage the skin's stratum corneum and granular layer, and even dissolve the proteins in the deeper layers of the skin. If used long-term under the assumption that they are non-irritating, they can lead to chronic poisoning. Synthetic shampoos damage hair, making it more fragile. Experiments have found that the average hair thickness of people using soap-based shampoos is 0.1mm, while those using synthetic shampoos have an average thickness of 0.09mm, with some individuals having hair as thin as 0.06mm. Under electron microscopy, the cuticle of hair from those using synthetic shampoos is found to be missing, showing signs of malnutrition. In fact, inexpensive and effective soap can be used for handwashing and bathing to remove dirt without harming the skin, and it is best to choose products without added substances.
@Cosmetics Harming the Skin@
I. Lotions, Moisturizers, Toners, Hand Creams
The surface of human skin is protected by a lipid film composed of oils secreted by sebaceous glands and water excreted by sweat glands. However, we habitually use various artificial oil products (by-products of petroleum refining) to "protect the skin," considering it a given. Smart consumers should check for the following ingredients when purchasing cosmetics:
Refined lanolin alcohol: An oily ingredient that can cause contact dermatitis and allergic skin inflammation.
Dibutylhydroxytoluene and butylhydroxyanisol: Antioxidants that may be carcinogenic.
Sodium benzoate: A preservative and bactericide that can irritate the skin, mucous membranes, eyes, nose, and throat.
Fragrances: Allergens.
Paraben: (Refer to the above)
Synthetic surfactants can destroy and dissolve the protective lipid film of the skin, leading to gradual dryness. Combined with the oily components, daily application can reduce the skin's natural sebum secretion function, resulting in chronic cumulative dermatitis.
Therefore, some dermatologists say that applying lotions and similar products is not "skin care" but "skin damage." If the skin is dry, consider using camellia oil or olive oil instead of lotions and toners laden with chemical substances.
II. Lipsticks, Lip Balms
The main ingredients of lip balms are the same as those in lotions and moisturizers. Not only do they fail to moisturize the lips, but they may also lead to chronic cumulative dermatitis and have carcinogenic or allergenic issues. Lipsticks are simply a mixture of oil and water, with added synthetic surfactants, TAR-based pigments, fragrances, and antioxidants. Since oils can easily spoil, preservatives and antifungal agents are also added. TAR-based pigments, synthesized from petroleum TAR, are largely confirmed to cause cancer. Recently, long-lasting lipsticks popular among women claim to use food-grade pigments, but most actually contain TAR-based pigments. Moreover, the fact that they are long-lasting means they continuously adhere to the lips and are difficult to remove, prompting cosmetic companies to provide special cleansing solutions, mainly composed of chemically synthesized detergents.Lips are mucous membranes, with an absorption capacity ten times that of skin, and are very sensitive to irritants. Applying lip balm and lipstick daily not only leads to loss of moisture, dryness, and peeling but also increases the risk of cumulative dermatitis. If one prefers long-lasting lipstick and uses cleansing solutions, it can be a double blow. The authors of "Do Not Buy" suggest that women who care for their lips should opt for safe lip balms and olive oil as alternatives.
@Hidden Chemical Toxins in Groceries@
1. Wet Wipes
When dining out, waiters often provide wet wipes, and they are also commonly used for hand cleaning. Recently, antibacterial wipes have been introduced to the market. Due to the popularity of "antibacterial" trends in Japan, many people use them to clean tables, door handles, and even karaoke microphones, making them a trendy product. However, a closer look at their main ingredients reveals:
- Propylene glycol: Causes contact dermatitis.
- Cetylpyridinium chloride: Irritates skin, mucous membranes, and eyes.
- Ethanol: Irritates skin and mucous membranes, especially in children with sensitive skin.
- Paraben: Can cause skin disorders and allergic eczema in some individuals.
- EDTA: A chemical that irritates skin and mucous membranes, causing rashes and allergies.
- Preservatives and antifungal agents: Used to prevent spoilage.
- Synthetic surfactants: (Refer to previous sections).
Antibacterial wipes also contain metals and chemicals like silver, copper, and zinc to inhibit bacterial growth. However, how effective are these antibacterial wipes? Japan's National Life Center conducted a survey on products like cutting boards, plastic trash bins, sinks, toothbrushes, and dish sponges, claiming to be antibacterial. After applying E. coli, over 30% of the products showed almost no antibacterial effect, and even those that did initially lost their effectiveness after two months. Many people do not wash their hands after using wet wipes, leaving residues on their skin. Some even use them to clean babies' bottoms, raising concerns. From an environmental perspective, disposable wipes waste forest resources, and it is better to return to natural alternatives. The authors of "Do Not Buy" recommend using wet towels for hand and face cleaning, as it is both eco-friendly and healthy.
2. Electric Shavers
Electric shavers sell 8 million units annually in Japan, indicating their popularity among Japanese men. Dr. Robert Becker, a professor at the State University of New York Medical School and a two-time Nobel Prize nominee in bioelectromagnetics, warns in his book "Cross Currents: The Perils of Electropollution" that the safe level of electromagnetic radiation from household appliances is 1mG. A 14-inch TV emits 1mG of radiation at a distance of 1 meter. Electric shavers with AC motors, when plugged in, emit up to 15,000mG of radiation at a distance of 3 cm, which is 15,000 times Dr. Becker's safe limit. Battery-operated shavers also emit electromagnetic radiation, though the intensity varies by product. It is well-known that electromagnetic radiation can accelerate the growth of cancer cells, turning them into malignant tumors. Dr. Becker is particularly concerned that individuals with moles on their faces who use electric shavers may be at risk of developing skin cancer due to strong electromagnetic radiation. Although daily usage time is short, the cumulative radiation exposure over time can lead to diseases like cancer, leukemia, and brain tumors, which may manifest after 10 years. To avoid daily radiation exposure, it is best to switch to traditional razors, apply soap to the face, and enjoy a safe and leisurely shaving experience."Buy Not" repeatedly emphasizes that it does not wish readers to feel lost after reading, but rather hopes that everyone will think together about "how to improve in the future," and reflect their opinions and anger to businesses and relevant government departments. Perhaps this could gather into a force that fosters the creation of environmentally friendly and healthy products.
"Not to Buy" Original Text: http://lz. book. sohu. com/ serialize- id- 2217. html
"Katte wa ikenai" wa katte wa ikenai
Faced with conflicting statements from the media and manufacturers; similar product advertisements still airing on TV; seeing these products heavily discounted in supermarkets... Consumers, are you going to buy or not? An in-depth report on the complete story of the incident by Natsume Shobo, conducted via overseas interviews.
Editor's Note: The spark of the incident was ignited by a Japanese media outlet specializing in promoting citizen movements, not a mainstream news organization—Weekly Kinyobi. In early 1999, they published a book titled "Cannot Buy," compiling a series of columns written over the past three years by their reporter Funase Shunsuke and others. The book exposed 89 types of products that should not be purchased, including food, cosmetics, beverages, medicines, and miscellaneous goods. It cited extensive data, directly pointing out harmful substances in these products, naming names, and including photographs. Since its release, the book has not only caused a huge uproar but also stirred a social storm in Japan, with the named manufacturers collectively protesting. Consequently, in October of the same year, a counter-book titled "The So-called 'Cannot Buy' is All Lies" was published by some prominent industry players through Bungeishunju. The third book, which is this one, "Do Not Buy 'Cannot Buy'," is essentially a more balanced book, not as sensational as the first. The editors have made every effort to gather their own materials and conduct experiments, analyzing the components of the products mentioned in the first book, reviewing the content from the consumer's perspective, and strengthening the theoretical and scientific aspects that were lacking in the first book. They have also spent considerable effort organizing and recording the arguments from both sides. The book establishes a five-star rating system, providing a fair assessment of the purchase-worthiness of each product. The explanatory sections are more detailed, but since some products have been forced to cease production (or have changed packaging) after the publication of the first book, there are no photographs. However, the storm it has stirred continues to this day.
Source: http:/ / www. books. com. tw/ exep……ooksfile. php? item=0010098665
"Don't Buy It" (Japanese Bestseller)
Author: Sun Xiaoping
"Do Not Buy" is compiled from serialized articles published since 1996 in the magazine "Weekly Golden Friday," which does not carry advertisements and relies solely on subscriber support. The authors categorize closely related daily necessities into food, beverages, detergents, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and sundries, citing research reports to expose the harmful ingredients in representative products from many well-known Japanese manufacturers, labeling them as "all harmful and no beneficial." The book lists about 90 products, including the company names, product names, photos, ingredients, and contact information, enabling consumers to directly inquire or provide feedback to the manufacturers.
Some say "Do Not Buy" is a manifesto from the media representing consumers against big corporations. Others view it as a guide for Japanese consumers to reflect on their purchasing habits. With the rise of global environmental and health awareness, consumers need to be conscious and develop habits to scrutinize product ingredients, refusing to buy products that harm the environment and human health and safety, rather than being swayed by advertising. Drawing on the principles revealed in Japan's "Do Not Buy," Taiwanese consumers can be more vigilant when purchasing food, beverages, cleaning products, cosmetics, and various sundries:
@Food Category@ The Attack of Environmental Hormones in the Kingdom of Instant Noodles
Taiwan's "Consumer Monthly" once investigated the nutritional content of bowl instant noodles, finding zero Vitamin A and C, with very little of other vitamins. Instead, the salt content was twice the daily limit of 3 grams recommended by the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Nutrition, and the chemical seasoning glutamic acid soda was a full 1 gram. Regular consumption of instant noodles can lead to vitamin deficiencies, mineral shortages, excessive salt intake, and taste disorders caused by chemical seasonings, among other nutritional imbalances. More notably, the containers for bowl instant noodles are mostly made of polystyrene, which deforms when heated. To prevent deformation during heating, manufacturers add the antioxidant BHT as a stabilizer. BHT is a carcinogen that can cause liver enlargement, chromosomal abnormalities, and reduced fertility. Japanese scientists have conducted experiments adding trace amounts of BHT (0.1%) to feed given to mice, resulting in some offspring being born without eyes or with deformities. Another issue is that most instant noodles are fried, and the oil also contains BHT, so when hot water is added, harmful substances dissolve from both the noodles and the container.
Even more alarming is the dissolution of styrene monomers. Pouring water into a styrene cup can dissolve 6-9 ppb (parts per billion). Experiments by Mie University's medical department in Japan showed that giving this water to white mice resulted in 4 out of 7 developing cancer. Adding hot water increases the dissolution to 51 ppb. A paper from the University of Tokyo's "Independent Lecture" points out that a daily intake of 0.001 mg of styrene monomer per kilogram of human body weight is dangerous. The industry acknowledges that a bowl of instant noodles can dissolve 0.015 mg, which is one-fourteenth of the dangerous amount, raising concerns considering individual differences in constitution.The carp in Tokyo's Tama River have abnormally atrophied seminal vesicles due to the influence of environmental hormones. One such hormone, called phthaloyl, is found at a concentration of 1.6 ppb in the downstream waters of the Tama River. However, the concentration in bowl-style instant noodle soup is as high as 1,100 ppb, which is 688 times the pollution level of the Tama River. The authors of "Don't Buy It" believe that "calling instant noodles a national ruin food is not an exaggeration." They suggest that noodle lovers should choose noodles with fewer additives for better health.
@Vitamin Drinks That Don't Boost Energy or Enhance Vitality@
A survey once asked Japanese housewives, "If your husband is tired, how do you help him recover?" Surprisingly, the majority responded, "Give him a vitamin drink," rather than "Let him rest properly." However, all vitamin drinks sold in Japan that claim to boost energy and vitality contain caffeine without exception. Some products even add alcohol, with alcohol content as high as 12%, and these are still displayed on the shelves as "vitamin drinks." There was a case where a truck driver drank three bottles of a vitamin drink claiming to "boost energy" to stay awake while driving late at night. He lost control on the Meishin Expressway, collided with the car in front, causing a chain reaction that set five cars on fire. The driver died on the spot. Due to the presence of alcohol in his system, the police initially mistook it for a drunk driving accident. Dr. Tamura Toyoyuki from a Japanese university conducted an experiment where he gave vitamin drinks to white rats to see how long they could swim in water, testing whether the drinks could actually boost "energy." Surprisingly, the rats that drank tap water swam longer than those that consumed vitamin drinks. To foreigners, it seems incomprehensible why Japanese people drink vitamin drinks. "If you need to supplement nutrients, just take vitamin pills. Why dissolve them in water to drink?" Even more absurdly, an employee from a pharmaceutical company once leaked that the cost of producing these vitamin drinks is only 3 yen, yet they are sold to consumers at prices hundreds or even thousands of times higher. It seems Japanese men who drink vitamin drinks should reconsider their choices.
@Potentially Hazardous Ingredients in Cleaning Products@
Turn on the TV, and during commercial breaks, you'll see various cleaning products advertised, such as shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers. The soothing voiceovers and glamorous models tell you how these products moisturize your skin and protect your hair. But what are the main ingredients in these cleaning products that come into daily contact with our skin? The authors of "Don't Buy It" remind consumers to watch out for the following ingredients:
EDTA: A precipitation inhibitor and water softener that can irritate the skin and mucous membranes, causing allergic reactions. Improper intake can lead to calcium deficiency, low blood pressure, and reduced kidney function.
Sodium Benzoate: When absorbed by the body, it may impair gastrointestinal function. It has antibacterial properties, indicating a certain level of toxicity.
Sodium Sorbate: Reports suggest it may be carcinogenic.
Paraben: A bactericide and antifungal agent that can cause liver damage, contact dermatitis, and has carcinogenic potential.
Fragrances: May cause allergic reactions.
Synthetic substances like bactericides, preservatives, and stabilizers: Primarily used to extend the shelf life of products, preventing them from spoiling.
Surfactants: Widely used in laundry detergents and dishwashing liquids.TAR Pigment Blue No. 1 and Yellow No. 4: May be irritating and potentially carcinogenic.
A well-known Japanese brand of shampoo contains up to 30% of an anionic synthetic surfactant called polyoxyethylene lauryl ether, which has strong cleansing power and is used to clean bathtubs. However, it is highly toxic and may cause skin diseases and internal organ disorders. Dr. Ozu Wangchun, director of the Tokyo Institute of Beauty Science, points out that facial cleansers made from chemical substances can damage the skin's stratum corneum and granular layer, and even dissolve the proteins in the deeper layers of the skin. If used long-term under the assumption that they are non-irritating, they can lead to chronic poisoning. Synthetic shampoos damage hair, making it more fragile. Experiments have found that the average hair thickness of people using soap-based shampoos is 0.1mm, while those using synthetic shampoos have an average thickness of 0.09mm, with some individuals having hair as thin as 0.06mm. Under electron microscopy, the cuticle of hair from those using synthetic shampoos is found to be missing, showing signs of malnutrition. In fact, inexpensive and effective soap can be used for handwashing and bathing to remove dirt without harming the skin, and it is best to choose products without added substances.
@Cosmetics Harming the Skin@
I. Lotions, Moisturizers, Toners, Hand Creams
The surface of human skin is protected by a lipid film composed of oils secreted by sebaceous glands and water excreted by sweat glands. However, we habitually use various artificial oil products (by-products of petroleum refining) to "protect the skin," considering it a given. Smart consumers should check for the following ingredients when purchasing cosmetics:
Refined lanolin alcohol: An oily ingredient that can cause contact dermatitis and allergic skin inflammation.
Dibutylhydroxytoluene and butylhydroxyanisol: Antioxidants that may be carcinogenic.
Sodium benzoate: A preservative and bactericide that can irritate the skin, mucous membranes, eyes, nose, and throat.
Fragrances: Allergens.
Paraben: (Refer to the above)
Synthetic surfactants can destroy and dissolve the protective lipid film of the skin, leading to gradual dryness. Combined with the oily components, daily application can reduce the skin's natural sebum secretion function, resulting in chronic cumulative dermatitis.
Therefore, some dermatologists say that applying lotions and similar products is not "skin care" but "skin damage." If the skin is dry, consider using camellia oil or olive oil instead of lotions and toners laden with chemical substances.
II. Lipsticks, Lip Balms
The main ingredients of lip balms are the same as those in lotions and moisturizers. Not only do they fail to moisturize the lips, but they may also lead to chronic cumulative dermatitis and have carcinogenic or allergenic issues. Lipsticks are simply a mixture of oil and water, with added synthetic surfactants, TAR-based pigments, fragrances, and antioxidants. Since oils can easily spoil, preservatives and antifungal agents are also added. TAR-based pigments, synthesized from petroleum TAR, are largely confirmed to cause cancer. Recently, long-lasting lipsticks popular among women claim to use food-grade pigments, but most actually contain TAR-based pigments. Moreover, the fact that they are long-lasting means they continuously adhere to the lips and are difficult to remove, prompting cosmetic companies to provide special cleansing solutions, mainly composed of chemically synthesized detergents.Lips are mucous membranes, with an absorption capacity ten times that of skin, and are very sensitive to irritants. Applying lip balm and lipstick daily not only leads to loss of moisture, dryness, and peeling but also increases the risk of cumulative dermatitis. If one prefers long-lasting lipstick and uses cleansing solutions, it can be a double blow. The authors of "Do Not Buy" suggest that women who care for their lips should opt for safe lip balms and olive oil as alternatives.
@Hidden Chemical Toxins in Groceries@
1. Wet Wipes
When dining out, waiters often provide wet wipes, and they are also commonly used for hand cleaning. Recently, antibacterial wipes have been introduced to the market. Due to the popularity of "antibacterial" trends in Japan, many people use them to clean tables, door handles, and even karaoke microphones, making them a trendy product. However, a closer look at their main ingredients reveals:
- Propylene glycol: Causes contact dermatitis.
- Cetylpyridinium chloride: Irritates skin, mucous membranes, and eyes.
- Ethanol: Irritates skin and mucous membranes, especially in children with sensitive skin.
- Paraben: Can cause skin disorders and allergic eczema in some individuals.
- EDTA: A chemical that irritates skin and mucous membranes, causing rashes and allergies.
- Preservatives and antifungal agents: Used to prevent spoilage.
- Synthetic surfactants: (Refer to previous sections).
Antibacterial wipes also contain metals and chemicals like silver, copper, and zinc to inhibit bacterial growth. However, how effective are these antibacterial wipes? Japan's National Life Center conducted a survey on products like cutting boards, plastic trash bins, sinks, toothbrushes, and dish sponges, claiming to be antibacterial. After applying E. coli, over 30% of the products showed almost no antibacterial effect, and even those that did initially lost their effectiveness after two months. Many people do not wash their hands after using wet wipes, leaving residues on their skin. Some even use them to clean babies' bottoms, raising concerns. From an environmental perspective, disposable wipes waste forest resources, and it is better to return to natural alternatives. The authors of "Do Not Buy" recommend using wet towels for hand and face cleaning, as it is both eco-friendly and healthy.
2. Electric Shavers
Electric shavers sell 8 million units annually in Japan, indicating their popularity among Japanese men. Dr. Robert Becker, a professor at the State University of New York Medical School and a two-time Nobel Prize nominee in bioelectromagnetics, warns in his book "Cross Currents: The Perils of Electropollution" that the safe level of electromagnetic radiation from household appliances is 1mG. A 14-inch TV emits 1mG of radiation at a distance of 1 meter. Electric shavers with AC motors, when plugged in, emit up to 15,000mG of radiation at a distance of 3 cm, which is 15,000 times Dr. Becker's safe limit. Battery-operated shavers also emit electromagnetic radiation, though the intensity varies by product. It is well-known that electromagnetic radiation can accelerate the growth of cancer cells, turning them into malignant tumors. Dr. Becker is particularly concerned that individuals with moles on their faces who use electric shavers may be at risk of developing skin cancer due to strong electromagnetic radiation. Although daily usage time is short, the cumulative radiation exposure over time can lead to diseases like cancer, leukemia, and brain tumors, which may manifest after 10 years. To avoid daily radiation exposure, it is best to switch to traditional razors, apply soap to the face, and enjoy a safe and leisurely shaving experience."Buy Not" repeatedly emphasizes that it does not wish readers to feel lost after reading, but rather hopes that everyone will think together about "how to improve in the future," and reflect their opinions and anger to businesses and relevant government departments. Perhaps this could gather into a force that fosters the creation of environmentally friendly and healthy products.
Re: "Don't Buy It" (Japanese Bestseller)
Can These Products be Bought? – the Consumer Revolution Shaking Japan
Faced with conflicting statements from the media and manufacturers; similar product advertisements still airing on TV; seeing these products heavily discounted in supermarkets... Consumers, are you going to buy or not? An in-depth report on the complete story of the incident by Natsume Shobo, conducted via overseas interviews.
Editor's Note: The spark of the incident was ignited by a Japanese media outlet specializing in promoting citizen movements, not a mainstream news organization—Weekly Kinyobi. In early 1999, they published a book titled "Cannot Buy," compiling a series of columns written over the past three years by their reporter Funase Shunsuke and others. The book exposed 89 types of products that should not be purchased, including food, cosmetics, beverages, medicines, and miscellaneous goods. It cited extensive data, directly pointing out harmful substances in these products, naming names, and including photographs. Since its release, the book has not only caused a huge uproar but also stirred a social storm in Japan, with the named manufacturers collectively protesting. Consequently, in October of the same year, a counter-book titled "The So-called 'Cannot Buy' is All Lies" was published by some prominent industry players through Bungeishunju. The third book, which is this one, "Do Not Buy 'Cannot Buy'," is essentially a more balanced book, not as sensational as the first. The editors have made every effort to gather their own materials and conduct experiments, analyzing the components of the products mentioned in the first book, reviewing the content from the consumer's perspective, and strengthening the theoretical and scientific aspects that were lacking in the first book. They have also spent considerable effort organizing and recording the arguments from both sides. The book establishes a five-star rating system, providing a fair assessment of the purchase-worthiness of each product. The explanatory sections are more detailed, but since some products have been forced to cease production (or have changed packaging) after the publication of the first book, there are no photographs. However, the storm it has stirred continues to this day.
Source: http:/ / www. books. com. tw/ exep……ooksfile. php? item=0010098665