Chinese Knock-Off...Condoms?

Many of us are familiar with knock-offs, from “Gucci” sunglasses at mall kiosks to “Rolex” watches on the street. This may be the first time that you have heard about counterfeit condoms.

Chinese police recently uncovered underground workshops believed to have produced approximately 2 million knock-off condoms (many of which were branded with popular manufacturers logos).

The condoms are said to offer little-to-no protection to the wearers, putting anyone who used the condoms at risk of pregnancy, HIV, or other STI’s. Reports identify that shirtless workers were found lubricating condoms with vegetable oil (a big no-no as it breaks down latex) and placing the unsterilized condoms into porous bags.

This is actually not the first time that counterfeit condoms have been distributed to the public. Reports around the world indicate that knock-off condoms are a growing problem. In May 2008, US customs agents uncovered a similar operation, where millions of counterfeit Trojan condoms were sold at discount stores in the New York area. Tests later revealed the condoms to be safe for public use, but as with all counterfeit products the inability to verify the source makes for risky business.

Police and health officials warn concerned buyers to be wary of deal-priced condoms. Condoms should be purchased from reputable sources; beware of unfamiliar packaging or varieties! Your need for wallet-friendly prophylaxis should not be worth the gamble on discount-store deals. Remember, there are many resources where you can stock up on condoms and lube, free of charge.

In Calgary, you can get all the free condoms you need at AIDS Calgary, Calgary Sexual Health, Safeworks, and the UofC Student Union office. If you are outside the Calgary area, check with your local AIDS Service Organisation or Sexual Health Centre for information about where to obtain free condoms.


Sources:
http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/world/asia/article6911127.ece
http://www.poz.com/articles/counterfeit_condoms_hiv_1_14697.shtml