Back in April, Wal-Mart had to recall a Chinese made key chain, made exclusively for their stores, because of high levels of lead. Now it turns out that Wal-Mart has to recall about 39,000 more key chains, also because of lead. One would think that Wal-Mart might have learned their lesson and double checked the lead content of the other key chains, but apparently not. It is now two months later, and who knows how many kids have ingested dangerous levels of lead because of Wal-Mart's neglect.
Here's the full story from Consumer Affairs:
Wal-Mart is recalling about 39,000 Hip Charm key chains, in addition to 12,000 chains recalled in April.The charms on the key chain can contain high levels of lead, which is toxic if ingested and can cause adverse health effects.
There have been no injuries reported with the additional key chains included in this recall. The Illinois Attorney General informed Wal-Mart and CPSC in April that the previously recalled key chain was found in the home of a 9-month-old child who was discovered to have high blood levels of lead. The child was observed mouthing this key chain.
The recalled key chains have several charms including a button, clover, leaf, and heart. The charms hang from a silver-colored chain. The words “Hip charm” and the following UPC numbers are printed on the products packaging: 03156811032, 03156811029, 03156811019, 03156811016, 03156811018, 03156811028, and 03156811030.The key chains were sold at Wal-Mart stores nationwide from April 2005 through June 2008 for between $ .50 and $6. They were made in China.
Consumers should not allow children to handle the key chain and should return it to any Wal-Mart store for a full refund.
For further information, contact Wal-Mart at (800) 925-6278 between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.walmartstores.com.
The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
Posted by Taylor - June 19, 2008 05:50 PM - In The News