On June 30, 2010, SmileMakers Incorporated recalled two of its children's products. Testing confirmed that the kids' accessories contained high levels of cadmium. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission also issued a product warning because of the severe health risks associated with cadmium.
Children's Charm Bracelets Recalled by SmileMakers
The kids' products listed under the recall were the Children's Happy Charm Bracelets and Children's Football Rings. The children's items were produced from June 2005 to March 2010. The kids' jewelry was presented as gifts to young patients in doctor and dentist offices across the nation.
The charm bracelets were designed in three styles. Butterfly, sun, or moon charms were attached to the bracelet. The bracelets also had colorful beads arranged around an elastic band. The bracelets were created as gifts for young girls following a successful doctor’s visit.
The football rings were created for young boys as gifts after a trip to the doctor’s office as well. The jewelry was a small, adjustable ring. A metal football charm was attached to the ring. The rings were painted to have a metallic appearance.
Defects in Charm Bracelets and Football Rings for Kids
No reports of injury or incident based on the use of the kids’ products were received based on information released by SmileMakers Incorporated. Additional testing confirmed the presence of cadmium, so the recall was posted in order to warn as many consumers as possible of the exposure risk.
The warning with the charm bracelets and football rings was important because even small amounts of cadmium can cause adverse health issues. Because of cadmium’s high toxicity level, small amounts can cause lung irritation in both children and adults.
Extended exposure to cadmium can cause even more damage to internal organs. Kidney damage or complete kidney failure can result from long-term exposure to the heavy metal.
Products that contain cadmium can release particles of the metal into the air. Individuals near the item can inhale damaging amounts just from standing in the room containing the item.
Actions to Take Following Recall of Jewelry from Doctors and Dentists
The charm bracelets and football rings are unsafe for children and should be removed from kids and their environments as soon as possible. Consumers may discard the jewelry or contact the company for more information. Individuals may contact the company at (877) 390-5470 between the hours of 9am and 5pm, Monday through Friday to gain more recall information.
Consumers may also visit the SmileMakers website to browse additional products available from the company or for more information on the recalled items. The company has also provided the email address – product.questions@smilemakers.com – for direct contact.
Readers who find this article useful may also like to read about recalls on Wilton Industries Children’s Tiaras, Evenflo Baby Cribs, and McDonald’s Shrek Drinking Glasses.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website provides recall information from across the United States for interested individuals.
Source:
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. "Children's Jewelry Recalled by SmileMakers Due to High Levels of Cadmium," News From CPSC (accessed July 1, 2010).
Christopher Clayton - After I received my M.S. in Human Development I continued to work in Human Services. I focus on the care and supports that children ...
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