More than 30,000 pairs of Dr. Martens Vegan Boots have been recalled because the lining contains a toxic chemical.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, prolonged contact with the boots’ tongue could cause exposure to benzidine, which has been linked to bladder and pancreatic cancer.
Benzidine was once a widely used chemical in cloth, paper, dyes and leather. But it has been phased out of manufacturing in the U.S. since the mid-1970s.
The chemical was found in trace amounts and likely used in the dye for the lining fabric.
No injuries have been reported in connection with the recalled boots, which were sold in all sizes in cherry red. The recalled boots were made in Vietnam.
Dr. Martens apologized for the recall saying, “In this instance, the risk of exposure is very low, but as the chemical is a restricted substance we are taking necessary steps to recall the impacted boots.”
