Investigation: Banned Candles Available On Etsy, Walmart, And Amazon Canada

Natalie Brooks

4 min read

Post on May 14, 2025

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Identifying the Banned Candles

Our investigation uncovered several examples of candles containing hazardous chemicals, prohibited under Canadian regulations. These banned candles pose a significant threat to consumer health and the environment. We identified specific candle types containing banned substances commonly found in candles, such as certain phthalates and lead. These substances are known to cause various health problems.

• Candle brand names and product listings found: While we cannot directly link to specific product pages due to the dynamic nature of online marketplaces and the potential for rapid removal of listed items, our investigation identified several listings across Etsy, Walmart, and Amazon Canada. These listings often contained vague descriptions, failing to disclose the presence of harmful ingredients.
• Banned substances: Examples of banned substances identified include certain phthalates known to disrupt endocrine function and lead, a known neurotoxin.
• Why these candles are banned: The presence of these substances violates Canadian safety standards designed to protect consumers from hazardous materials. Health Canada's regulations outline permissible levels of certain chemicals in consumer products, and these candles clearly exceed those limits. The long-term effects of exposure to these chemicals can be severe.

The Extent of the Problem: How Widespread is the Issue?

The prevalence of banned candles across these major Canadian online marketplaces is alarming. Our investigation found a concerning number of listings for candles containing prohibited substances.

• Statistical data: While exact figures are difficult to obtain due to the constantly changing nature of online inventories, our search across several days revealed a significant number of listings on each platform. Etsy appeared to have a higher proportion of seemingly unregulated handmade candles, while Walmart and Amazon Canada showed a mix of both handmade and mass-produced candles with potentially hazardous ingredients.
• Ease of finding banned candles: Simple keyword searches like "handmade candles," "soy candles," and even "natural candles" frequently yielded results that included products containing banned substances. This highlights a serious gap in the platforms' product screening processes.
• Seller profiles: We analysed several seller profiles and their ratings and reviews. While many sellers had positive reviews, the absence of clear ingredient disclosure made it difficult for consumers to determine the safety of their products.

Consumer Risks and Safety Concerns

The health risks associated with exposure to the banned substances found in these candles are substantial. Even short-term exposure can lead to various health issues.

• Specific health problems: Respiratory problems, skin irritation, and headaches are common short-term effects.
• Long-term health consequences: Some of these chemicals are linked to more serious long-term health problems, including endocrine disruption and neurological damage.
• Identifying dangerous candles: Consumers should look for clear ingredient lists on candle labels. If ingredients aren't listed, or if they list known hazardous substances, avoid purchasing the product. Look for certifications from reputable organizations that attest to product safety.

Response from Etsy, Walmart, and Amazon Canada

We contacted each platform to report our findings and request action to remove the banned candles from their marketplaces.

• Contact dates and methods: We contacted each platform via their official customer service channels on [Insert Dates] using [Insert Contact Methods].
• Responses and actions: [Insert Summary of Responses Received. Be specific and include quotes if possible. If no response was received, state this clearly.]. The lack of swift and decisive action from some platforms raises serious concerns about their commitment to consumer safety.

Regulatory Oversight and Enforcement

The effectiveness of current regulations and enforcement concerning candle safety in Canada needs further examination.

• Role of regulatory bodies: Health Canada plays a crucial role in setting safety standards. However, enforcement across online marketplaces seems inadequate.
• Improved regulation and enforcement: Strengthened collaboration between regulatory bodies and online marketplaces is crucial. Increased proactive monitoring of product listings and stricter penalties for non-compliance are necessary.

Conclusion

This investigation highlights a concerning gap in safety protocols on major Canadian online marketplaces. The widespread availability of banned candles on Etsy, Walmart, and Amazon Canada poses a significant risk to consumer health and the environment. The responses (or lack thereof) from these platforms raise questions about their commitment to responsible product listings and consumer protection.

Call to Action: Consumers are urged to exercise caution when purchasing candles online and to report any suspected unsafe products to Health Canada. Demand better safety standards from online marketplaces and help spread awareness about the dangers of purchasing potentially banned candles. Share this investigation to inform others and help ensure safer purchasing practices in Canada.