Mattel recalls 18 million toys
Mattel is recalling more than 18 million toys worldwide after reports of children swallowing small magnets when they fell loose from the toys.
The recall affects ‘certain dolls, figures, play sets and accessories that may release small, powerful magnets,’ according to a statement from the US company. The US Consumer Product Safety Commission said all of the toys were manufactured in China.If swallowed, the magnets could attract each other and cause intestinal perforation, infection or blockage, which can be fatal. According to a joint statement from CPSC and Mattel, there had been three reports of serious injuries to children who swallowed more than one magnet. All three suffered intestinal perforations that required surgery.
Products that are affected in the new recall include:
* Polly Pocket dolls and accessories with magnets,
* Doggie Day Care magnetic toys,
* Barbie and Tanner magnetic toys,
* Batman and One Piece play sets
The announcement was the second recall of Chinese-manufactured toys in recent weeks. The first, involving Mattel’s Fisher-Price division concerned lead paint. Lead paint has been linked to brain damage in small children. The co-owner of the Chinese firm that manufactured the toys from the first recall recently committed suicide. More than 80 per cent of toys sold worldwide are made in China, and the string of recalls has prompted nervousness among toy retailers that shoppers will not purchase their products.
