Reading and Media Resources

U.S. Rep. David Schweikert introduced H.R. 5261, the “Paws Off Act of 2021,” which would amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to deem foods containing xylitol as misbranded unless the label contains a warning specifying the toxic effects of xylitol for dogs. Xylitol is a form of low-calorie sugar alcohol that is frequently used as a sweetener in chewing gum, mints, toothpaste, and peanut butter. Even small amounts ingested by dogs can cause hypoglycemia, liver failure, seizures, and death. The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

[To accompany Legislative Update "Federal Bill Would Require Warning Label about Toxicity of Xylitol for Dogs" from Brooks Animal Law Digest Issue No. 123.]