The EU justice commissioner, Michael McGrath, expressed concern over the safety of products sold by online retailers Shein and Temu. He highlighted alarming findings regarding toxic items being sold on these platforms, which are bypassing European Union laws. With millions of low-value parcels entering the EU daily from outside retailers, McGrath is determined to enhance enforcement of product safety regulations.

He is currently awaiting results from a secret shopper investigation aimed at uncovering more evidence of these violations. Some troubling examples included baby soothers that could pose choking hazards and children's raincoats containing harmful chemicals. Additionally, cosmetics with a banned ingredient linked to fertility issues were also found.

McGrath emphasized the need to protect European consumers and noted that local businesses face unfair competition from sellers who do not comply with safety standards. He mentioned that last year saw a record number of alerts about unsafe products through the EU's Safety Gate service.

To address these issues, the EU is considering measures such as eliminating the €150 duty-free threshold for imports and possibly creating a new customs authority to manage challenges posed by rising e-commerce volumes. Both Shein and Temu have stated their commitment to product safety and compliance with regulations, outlining their efforts in testing and monitoring products offered by third-party sellers.

Original article (shein) (temu)

Here is an analysis of the article's value to a general reader:

Actionable Information: The article does not provide specific steps or a plan of action for readers to take. It mainly informs about the concerns raised by the EU justice commissioner regarding product safety on online retail platforms. While it mentions potential measures like eliminating the duty-free threshold, these are not immediate actions readers can initiate.

Educational Depth: It offers some educational value by explaining the issues with product safety, the potential risks to consumers, and the unfair competition faced by local businesses. However, it does not delve deeply into the causes or historical context of these problems. The article could have provided more insight into how these online retailers bypass EU laws and the challenges faced in enforcing regulations.

Personal Relevance: The topic is relevant to consumers, especially those who shop online and are concerned about product safety. It highlights potential hazards and the need for awareness, which can impact personal choices and purchasing decisions. Additionally, the mention of unfair competition may resonate with local businesses and their customers.

Public Service Function: The article serves a public service by bringing attention to the commissioner's concerns and the potential risks associated with certain products. It informs readers about the ongoing investigation and the need for stricter enforcement. However, it falls short of providing direct safety advice or emergency contacts.

Practicality of Advice: As the article primarily focuses on the commissioner's concerns and the investigation, it does not offer practical advice or tips for readers. The mentioned measures are at a policy level and are not actionable for individuals.

Long-Term Impact: The article's focus on product safety and regulatory enforcement has the potential for long-term positive impact. By raising awareness and potentially leading to stricter regulations, it can contribute to a safer consumer environment. However, the article itself does not provide strategies or solutions with lasting effects.

Emotional/Psychological Impact: The article may evoke concern or even alarm in readers due to the mention of toxic items, choking hazards, and banned ingredients. While it aims to inform, it could leave some readers feeling anxious or uncertain about their online shopping habits. It does not offer strategies to alleviate these emotions or provide a sense of empowerment.

Clickbait or Ad-Driven Words: The article does not use sensational or clickbait language. It presents the information in a straightforward manner, focusing on the commissioner's statements and the issues at hand.

In summary, the article provides valuable information about product safety concerns and the EU's efforts to address them. However, it lacks actionable steps, in-depth analysis, and practical advice for readers. While it serves a public service function by raising awareness, it could benefit from offering more concrete solutions or resources for consumers and businesses.

"He highlighted alarming findings regarding toxic items being sold on these platforms, which are bypassing European Union laws."

This sentence uses strong language to create a sense of urgency and fear. The word "alarming" suggests a serious threat, and the use of "toxic items" and "bypassing laws" implies a dangerous situation. It frames the issue as a clear violation, putting the focus on the negative aspects.

The text expresses a range of emotions, primarily driven by the concern for consumer safety and the potential risks associated with online retail platforms. The EU justice commissioner, Michael McGrath, displays a strong sense of worry and alarm as he highlights the findings of toxic and unsafe products being sold by Shein and Temu. This emotion is evident in his use of words like "concern," "alarming," and "troubling," which create a sense of urgency and draw attention to the issue. McGrath's worry is further emphasized by his determination to enhance product safety regulations and his anticipation of the secret shopper investigation results.

The text also conveys a sense of unfairness and injustice. McGrath points out that local businesses face an uneven playing field due to sellers who disregard safety standards. This emotion aims to evoke sympathy for local businesses and create a sense of indignation towards those who violate regulations. By highlighting the record number of alerts about unsafe products, the commissioner emphasizes the magnitude of the problem and the need for action.

Fear is another emotion that permeates the text. The mention of choking hazards for babies and harmful chemicals in children's raincoats evokes a sense of fear and protection for vulnerable consumers. The discovery of cosmetics with banned ingredients linked to fertility issues also instills fear, as it suggests potential long-term health consequences. This emotion is a powerful motivator, as it urges readers to support stricter regulations and safer practices.

To persuade readers, the writer employs emotional language and rhetorical devices. The repetition of words like "safety" and "unsafe" emphasizes the central theme and creates a sense of urgency. The use of phrases such as "bypassing European Union laws" and "unfair competition" adds a moral dimension to the issue, suggesting that those who violate regulations are acting unethically. By comparing the actions of compliant local businesses with those of non-compliant online retailers, the writer implies that one group is more trustworthy and responsible than the other.

The text also employs a strategic narrative structure. By beginning with the commissioner's expression of concern and then detailing the specific examples of unsafe products, the writer builds a compelling case. This narrative arc, from general worry to specific instances of harm, is designed to evoke a strong emotional response and motivate readers to support the proposed measures. The writer's choice of words, such as "alarming" and "troubling," adds an emotional layer to the facts, making the issue more personal and relatable.

In summary, the text skillfully employs emotions to guide the reader's reaction and persuade them of the need for action. By expressing worry, highlighting unfair practices, and evoking fear, the writer creates a compelling case for stricter regulations and enforcement. The strategic use of emotional language and narrative structure ensures that the message resonates with readers and motivates them to support the EU's efforts to enhance product safety.