On June 4, 2010, McDonald’s recalled some glassware for children. The Shrek drinking glasses were found to contain cadmium. To inform as many consumers as possible the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission also issued a product report.
Shrek Drinking Glasses Recalled by ARC International
The kids’ product listed under the recall was the Shrek Forever After 3D collectible drinking glasses. The cups were sold exclusively at McDonald’s throughout the United States. The children’s product was available from May 2010 to June 2010. The glassware could be purchased for about $2.
The children’s glasses were available in four different designs. Pictures of characters from the movie, Shrek Forever After 3D adorned the cups. The designs were either Shrek, Fiona, Puss n’ Boos, or Donkey. Except for the character designs the glasses were clear.
While sold at McDonald’s, ARC International in Millville, New Jersey produced the cups. The glasses were created to hold 16 ounces of fluid. McDonald’s estimated that 12 million units were purchased.
Defects in Collectable Cups Sold at McDonald’s
Based on information released by the McDonald’s Corporation, no reports of injury or incident linked to the use of the children’s product were received. When testing confirmed the presents of cadmium in the glasses the corporation immediately took action to reduce the number of consumers potentially exposed to the heavy metal.
Cadmium is dangerous because of the high toxicity level. Even small amounts of cadmium can cause adverse health issues. Exposure to small amounts over a brief period of time can cause lung irritation in children and adults.
Long-term exposure can damage internal organs. Organ damage may also occur with exposure to high amounts of cadmium. Amounts of cadmium high enough to be dangerous could be in the air and inhaled by individuals using the product or standing near the item. Ingestion is also another way to intake cadmium. One result of long-term cadmium exposure is kidney damage or failure.
Actions to Take Following Recall of Drinking Glasses for Kids
Because of the serious health risks associated with cadmium the glasses should be removed from children and their environments as soon as possible. Individuals can discard the glasses but this action could hinder consumers’ ability to obtain a refund. Consumers can contact McDonald’s Corporation to gain refund information.
Individuals may contact McDonald’s at (800) 244-6227 between the hours of 9am and 5pm, Monday through Friday. Consumers may also use the McDonald’s website to find out more about the refund.
Information about recalls from across the United States is available on the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission website for interested individuals.
Those who have found this information helpful may also like to read additional recalls on Sprout Stuff Ring Slings, Rashti & Rashti Giraffe Blankets, and Gap Baby Swimsuits.
Source:
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. “McDonald’s Recalls Movie Themed Drinking Glasses Due to Potential Cadmium Risk,” News From CPSC (accessed June 4, 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 ...
Join the Conversation