Tom’s of Maine Products Earn Halal Certification

Kennebunk, Maine – July 26, 2006

Tom’s of Maine products have recently earned Halal certification, making Tom’s one of the few personal care companies to have this certification. Halal, an Arabic word meaning lawful or permitted, is the certification given by the Islamic Food and Nutrition Council of America (IFANCA). The Halal symbol will now appear on all Tom’s product packaging.

Tom Chappell, Cofounder and CEO of Tom’s of Maine, announced the Certification, stating, "Tom’s of Maine now has the opportunity to serve a whole new community of people who make buying decisions based on their values. We’re excited by this news and believe when you create products with clear values in mind, you end up with higher quality ingredients and more effective products."

A crossfunctional team of Tom’s of Maine employees worked with IFANCA to obtain certification. Tom’s products also have kosher certification.

Listen to a Maine Public Broadcasting Network interview with Tom Chappell about the Halal certification.

Founded in Kennebunk, Maine, by Tom and Kate Chappell in 1970, Tom's of Maine creates effective personal care products using simple, natural ingredients derived from plants and minerals. Tom's of Maine products—toothpaste, mouthwash, floss, deodorant, and soap—do not contain artificial sweeteners, preservatives, colors, flavors, or animal ingredients; are tested for safety and efficacy without the use of animals; are biodegradable; and are packaged in earth-friendly ways. Our philosophy of "Natural Care" guides us in doing what is right for our customers, employees, communities, and environment. We fulfill our Natural Care mission by donating 10% of our profits to charitable organizations; by encouraging our employees to use 5% of their paid time in volunteer work; by adhering to our standards of natural, sustainable, and responsible; and by not testing on animals.

If you need any additional information about Tom's of Maine, please contact Susan Dewhirst, Media and Public Relations Leader. The best way to reach Susan is by email at sdewhirst@tomsofmaine.com. She can also be reached by phone at 207-467-2406.

For all other questions comments, please contact our Consumer Dialogue Department by email or at 800-367-8667.