The claim, frequently seen on social media, that "the colors on the bottom of toothpaste tubes reveal the ingredients," is confusing many consumers. Descriptions like "black is chemical, green is natural" are spreading rapidly, especially in short videos. But do these colorful squares actually provide information about the toothpaste's ingredients, or do they have a completely different meaning during the production process?
The truth is, toothpaste color codes or the colored markings on the bottom of the toothpaste have no connection to the product's chemical composition. These squares are solely for ensuring correct packaging alignment on the production line and improving print quality.
The Emergence of Color Codes
Technical Purpose of Colored Squares in the Production Line
The colored squares on the packaging are detected by automatic cutting and folding machines used in production facilities. These squares serve as optical reference points that determine where the machine will cut. This means the machine cuts, folds, and seals the packaging in the correct place based on this marking.
The "Eye Mark" System Used in the Packaging Printing Process
These squares are part of a system technically called "eye marks." Eye mark sensors recognize these colored marks on the print, maintaining packaging alignment and text-visual integrity. Color variations are often chosen to increase contrast in the print. Therefore, different colors can appear in each brand.
Common Misinformation on Social Media
Where Did the Claim “Black = Chemical, Green = Natural” Come From?
The origin of this claim stems from a false image circulating on social media a few years ago. The image created a false grid between the squares beneath the tubes and the content type. This information was quickly shared without any verification, and many users mistaken it for real.
Why Is This Information Incorrect?
The ingredients of toothpastes are listed in the "Ingredients" list on the label. The colored squares on the bottom of the packaging have no connection to the chemical or natural content other than their technical function on the production line. Furthermore, even two products with the same formula may be produced in different production facilities with different color codes.
Fact: The Technical Meaning of Color Codes
Alignment Marks for Packaging Cutting and Folding Machines
These squares are used throughout the production process to ensure accurate printing alignment and accurate packaging cutting. Invisible sensors detect these squares and guide the machine.
It has nothing to do with content and chemical ratio.
The factors that determine the content of a toothpaste are the product formula, active ingredients, and the manufacturer's statement. The colored squares refer to the printing technology, not the content.
Objectives of Improving Production Quality and Reducing Margin of Error
This system reduces error rates in packaging production, ensures product consistency, and prevents issues like print misalignment. In other words, these little squares are actually part of quality control.
How to Really Tell What Your Toothpaste Ingredients Are
Reading the Table of Contents Correctly
The most accurate way to learn about the ingredients in a toothpaste is to read the ingredient list under the "Ingredients" heading. This section is legally required to state the product's formula.
Active Ingredients (Fluoride, Zinc, Herbal Extracts, etc.)
The most commonly used active ingredients in toothpastes are sodium fluoride, zinc salts, herbal extracts, and bleaching agents. The presence, proportion, and combination of these ingredients determine the product's effectiveness.
Certifications and Security Standards
Products certified natural or organic generally receive certification from independent organizations such as Ecocert and COSMOS. Furthermore, every toothpaste marketed in Türkiye is inspected under the Cosmetics Regulation and Product Safety Legislation.
Recommendations to Consumers
Querying Social Media Information
When you come across information about a product on social media, be sure to check the source. Unscientific images and rumors are often misleading.
Considering the Ingredient List and Brand Reliability
When choosing a product, pay attention to the ingredient list on the packaging and the brand's transparency policies. Reputable brands usually share formula details openly.
Product Selection with Expert Advice
When choosing the most appropriate toothpaste for your oral and dental health, the best approach is to get advice from your dentist or pharmacist.
In conclusion, the colored squares on the bottom of toothpaste tubes are a myth. These markings are simply part of the manufacturing process and provide no information about the product's contents. To get accurate information, always check the ingredient list on the packaging and verify it with reliable sources.
📖 If you want to learn all the details and solutions regarding oral and dental health, be sure to read our article titled Periodontitis and Gum Health .
