Dye fears pull 120,000 garments from shops

Spreading fears of a carcinogenic clothing dye could see children's clothing and bed sheets pulled from store shelves over the next few weeks. 

More than 120,000 jeans, pants and shorts have already been recalled from stores after they were found to be tainted with a carcinogenic dye that's banned in Europe and has restricted use in the US.

All items recalled can be found at www.recalls.gov.au

The use of azo dye, which can form carcinogenic chemicals which break down and can be absorbed through the skin, is legal in Australia, although from June 1 will be classified as a dangerous poison in the same category as cyanide, strychnine and arsenic.

The ACCC said more than 121,000 "clothing and manchester" items using the chemical had been recalled by various retailers.

The consumer watchdog said had it negotiated a total of eight recalls, comprising 28 product lines from impacted suppliers.

"Further recalls are possible in coming weeks," the ACCC said.

The recalled products include several types of children's jeans as well as both infant and children's clothing. 

It said while consumer exposure to hazardous azo dyes was likely to be very low, "the associated cancer risks give cause for concern".

"As a result, exposure to certain azo dyes, including benzidine-based dyes, should be minimised or eliminated," the ACCC said.

Myer has reportedly called on the government to clarify the position regarding the dye.

A Myer spokeswoman told AAP that customers who bought tainted jeans could return them for a full refund.