STAR-K ALERT RE LIQUID CHILDREN’S TYLENOL

October 28, 2010

Children’s Tylenol

For many years, the Star-K Hotline has recommended various Tylenol and Motrin products manufactured by McNeil Consumer Healthcare, Division of McNeil-PPC, Inc.. Although these products have never been formally Kosher certified, Star-K was able to approve them based on our review of information provided to us. The glycerin used in these products was derived from Kosher sources (i.e. Kosher glycerin can be made from vegetable or synthetic sources). These products were produced in their Fort Washington, PA, plant. This plant which was shut down this past spring.

McNeil is now distributing Grape Liquid Children’s Tylenol manufactured in Canada. Representatives of McNeil have stated that this product contains glycerin derived from non-Kosher beef or pork. (Ed note: liquid meds are a halachic issue in terms of kashruth)

We recommend discussing with your physician whether the following Kosher alternatives will work for those who require acetaminophen:

* Triaminic Fever Reducer Pain Reliever Syrup made by Novartis is certified Kosher when bearing the OU symbol. This children’s product contains acetaminophen, the same active ingredient found in Tylenol.
* McNeil Consumer Healthcare also produces a liquid version of Tylenol Extra Strength Rapid Blast Liquid for Adults – Cherry Flavor which does not contain any glycerin.
* Many children are able to use chewable tablets which typically do not contain glycerin (although they may contain other ingredients which are kosher-sensitive).