Amid recent reports of cadium in kids’ jewelry, the Consumer Product Safety Commission urges parents to take cheap metal bracelets, necklaces and other jewelry from children.
CPSC chair Inez Tenenbaum warns: Do not allow young children to be given or to play with cheap metal jewelry, especially when they are unsupervised. "We have proof that lead in children’s jewelry is dangerous and was pervasive in the marketplace. To prevent young children from possibly being exposed to lead, cadmium or any other hazardous heavy metal, take the jewelry away.
Read a transcript of Tenenbaum’s video recording here.
Tenenbaum cited recent findings from an AP investigation which discovered high levels of cadmium in children’s jewelry sold at Claire’s, Wal-Mart and other popular discount stores. The most contaminated piece analyzed in lab testing performed for the AP contained 91 percent cadmium by weight.
Cadmium is a known carcinogen. Like lead, it can hinder brain development in the very young, according to recent research.
Detecting harmful levels of a metal in a specific item is impossible for parents. They need to regularly check the CPSC Web site and HealtyStuff.org to stay informed about recent recalls.
Sen. Charles Schumer (D-NY) plans to introduce new legislation when Congress goes back in session next week. Schumer said he aims to "put an end to the use of cadmium in our children’s jewelry and toys once and for all … whether it’s made here or China or anywhere else. It will just stop it cold."
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