Christmas Shopping 2007: Let "Made in China" Products Collect Dust on Store Shelves!

Like so many Americans, I have been thinking a lot about China this holiday season-- not China as a country, but "Made in China." Too many news reports have centered on recalls of American products made there. When I heard a report about China's use of lead paint-- not only on toys, but also on other products, I wondered how many "Made in China" products I had in my home. I began an inventory and the further I Iooked the more sickened I felt! My everyday dishes were made there. All my Corning Ware was made there. Most appliances were made there. Just about anything cute or colorful was made there.

My husband's and my whimsical salt and pepper shaker collection turned out to be largely Chinese made. Moose salt and pepper shakers, bought in Alaska; alligators, bought in Georgia; beach goers, bought in Florida--all were made in China. Even silver Empire State Building shakers, bought in New York, were made in China. Out of more than 20 sets bought in the United States, only 3 did not have a "Made in China" sticker on the bottom.

We didn't look to see who made the salt and pepper shakers when we bought them. We didn't notice who made our artsy dishes, either, or who made our appliances. We bought what we liked or chose brands that were familiar. I realize now that we participated in the selling off of America, bit by bit, by allowing ourselves to be enticed by "beads and trinkets" disguised as quality products.

I didn't feel any better after a trip to Wal-Mart. I looked for anything made in the United States. Try it sometime. It is like a scavenger hunt. I did find Anchor Hocking, and replaced all my "Made in China" dishes and cook ware. Does that seem absurd? I thought so, but the thought of trusting manufacturers, who apparently have no regard for customers' personal welfare, seemed more absurd. Thank you Anchor Hocking for safety standards and American-made-products. I enjoy my new dishes and feel confident they will do no harm.