A behind the scenes look at recalls

Here's a background story on the FSIS, botulism and recalls in general from the Mail Tribune. Of interest:

...food and other product recalls remain a voluntary process instigated by manufacturers. And there are no federal fines or penalties levied against companies whose products are subject to recall, said Amanda Eamich, spokesperson for the Food Safety and Inspection Service, a division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

"There is no such thing as a mandatory recall," said Eamich. "However, no company has ever refused a recall for FSIS."

Toro recalls electric blowers because of projectile hazards

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced voluntary recalls of the following consumer products. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Toro Power Sweep Electric Blowers

Units: About 900,000

Manufacturer: The Toro Company, of Bloomington, Minn.

Hazard: The blower’s impeller, which is a rotating component on the blower, can break, resulting in pieces of plastic flying out of the blower. This poses a risk of serious injury to the user or a bystander.

Incidents/Injuries: Toro has received 154 reports of broken impellers, including 21 reports of minor cuts and bruises resulting from projected impeller pieces.

Description: The recall involves Toro Power Sweep electric blower model 51586 that was manufactured between 2000 and 2002. The electric blowers have serial numbers that range between 000055100 and 220255609. There are two decals on the main housing of the blower. One decal reads, “TORO Power Sweep” and the decal on the opposite side of the blower contains the model number and serial number. The recalled units can be identified by a black impeller fan, which can be seen through the air inlet screen on the bottom of the unit.

Sold through: Toro dealers and various mass retailers nationwide including The Home Depot, Lowes, Target and K-Mart stores from January 2000 through late December 2002 for about $32.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled blowers immediately and contact Toro to receive a replacement blower.

Consumer Contact: For more information, contact Toro at (888) 279-3191 between 7:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Saturday. Consumers can also visit the Toro web site at www.toro.com. The Toro Company has notified registered owners directly.

Coldwater Creek Recalls Sweaters Due to Burn Hazard

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Shawl Collar Sweaters

Units: About 3,500

Distributor: Coldwater Creek, of Sandpoint, Idaho

Hazard: The sweaters fail to meet Federal flammability requirements. Should the sweater come in contact with an ignition source, such as a stove burner, candle flame or cigarette lighter, it could catch fire and cause serious burns to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: None.

Description: This recall involves Coldwater Creek shawl collar sweaters in red only. The textured yarn sweaters were sold in sizes XS through 3X. A tag sewn into the neck of the sweater displays the Coldwater Creek brand logo.

Sold by: Coldwater Creek catalog and coldwatercreek.com from November 2006 through May 2007 for $62.

Manufactured in: Hong Kong

Remedy: Consumers should stop wearing the sweater and return it to Coldwater Creek for a refund, including tax and postage. The company will provide consumers with a $20 coupon towards another purchase.

Consumer Contact: For more information, consumers should contact Coldwater Creek at (800) 262-0040 between 6 a.m. and 3 a.m. ET, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.coldwatercreek.com

Pottery Barn Kids recalls crib bumpers

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Matelassé Crib Bumpers

Units: About 31,000

Manufacturer: Pottery Barn Kids, of San Francisco, Calif.

Hazard: The decorative stitching on the bumper’s edge can come loose, posing an entanglement hazard to young children.

Incidents/Injuries: Pottery Barn Kids has received two reports of incidents involving the decorative stitching coming loose. No injuries have been reported.

Description: This recall involves the Diamond Matelassé, Floral Matelassé and Polka Dot Matelassé crib bumpers made of 100% cotton. The Diamond Matelassé bumpers are white and have decorative thread in pink, blue, green, yellow or chocolate stitched along the scalloped edge. The Polka Dot and Floral bumpers come in assorted colors with matching decorative stitching. A label on the bumper reads “pottery barn kids”.

Sold at: Pottery Barn Kids stores nationwide, its catalog, and online stores from February 2003 through June 2007 for about $90.

Manufactured in: Portugal

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the bumpers immediately and remove any exposed stitching, or contact Pottery Barn Kids for a refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, call Pottery Barn Kids toll-free at (877) 800-9720 between 7 a.m. and 12 a.m. ET daily or visit the company’s website at www.potterybarnkids.com

Sauder Woodworking recalls TV stands

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: TV Stands

Units: About 414,000

Manufacturer: Sauder Woodworking Co., of Archbold, Ohio

Hazard: The TV stand can collapse if the fasteners used to connect the metal legs to the lower shelf are not completely tightened during assembly, posing a risk that the TV set can fall onto children or adults.

Incidents/Injuries: Sauder has received 43 reports of TV stands collapsing. Most of the reported incidents involved stands that had recently been assembled. Three injuries required medical treatment including a broken arm, a torn rotator cuff with a concussion, and an injured finger. These injuries occurred when consumers attempted to prevent a TV from falling off the stand. In addition, a 6-year-old child received a bruised shoulder when the stand collapsed and a TV fell on her.

Description: The recalled TV Stand measures 23 ¾ inches (h) x 38 ½ inches (w) x 19 ½ inches (d) with a brushed maple finish. The stand has criss-cross, black, wrought-iron legs, a pull-out drawer, and a lower shelf. Model number 400205 and UPC number 42666 01958 are located on the product’s carton and instructions.

Sold at: Wal-Mart stores nationwide and online at Wal-Mart.com from January 2005 through May 2007 for about $90.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the TV stand immediately if it moves from side-to-side. Consumers should contact Sauder to receive detailed instructions on checking the tightness of the fasteners.

Consumer Contact: Contact Sauder toll-free at (866) 218-8312 between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, and between 9:00 a.m and 5:00 p.m. ET on Saturday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.sauder.com

Remote control airplanes recalled

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Sky Rangers Park Flyer Radio Control Airplanes

Units: About 21,000

Distributor: Estes-Cox Corp., of Penrose, Colo.

Hazard: The airplanes are launched by hand and can explode near the consumer’s head, posing a risk of temporary hearing loss and injuries to eyes, face and hands.

Incidents/Injuries: Estes-Cox has received 45 reports of airplanes exploding, including 22 reports of consumers experiencing temporary ear pain or hearing being affected; five reports of minor burns to hands, faces or eyes; two reports of chest impact from debris; two reports of eye injuries; and one report of a cut hand. One consumer sought medical attention for burning eyes.

Description: This recall involves Model 4116 Sky Rangers Park Flyer radio control airplanes, which come with a black battery charger. The airplanes have a wingspan of about 14 inches, a light blue, white and orange polystyrene foam fuselage, and a copper coil on the rudder. Airplanes with a warning sticker on the fuselage near the on/off switch are not included in the recall.

Sold at: Hobby stores and other retailers nationwide from September 2005 through December 2006 for between $20 and $40.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled airplanes immediately and contact Estes-Cox to verify that their plane is being recalled and for instructions on returning the airplane for a replacement product.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Estes-Cox at (800) 576-5811 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. MT Monday through Thursday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.estesrockets.com

Dangers of overpayment scams

If it sounds too good to be true...

From the Washington State Attorney General's office come new warnings about check overpayment scams:

Attorney General Rob McKenna warned Washington residents that con artists are becoming increasingly skilled at customizing their pitches. Residents of Lakewood, Washington, have been targeted twice in recent weeks for identity theft and financial fraud scams. The cases appear to be unrelated, but show how far criminals will go in order to convince someone to send money or provide personal information.

“Scammers are becoming increasingly more sophisticated in their schemes,” McKenna said. “They may initially appear genuine and nice. But often, when a potential victim refuses to fall for the scam, cons reveal their real personalities and become increasingly manipulative and even belligerent. Never wire money to a stranger. And don’t provide personal information requested in an e-mail or by an unsolicited caller.”

The Attorney General’s Office recently saw one of its most convincing “check overpayment” scams involving counterfeit checks and attempted wire transfer fraud. The scam began after a con artist sent an e-mail to a Lakewood music teacher on May 31, claiming to be an antique auctioneer seeking a flute instructor for her 11-year-old son.

The con apparently found the teacher’s e-mail address on the Web site of a music conservatory, where four years ago she posted an announcement that she was available to teach private lessons. After more than a month of exchanging e-mails with the scammer, the teacher realized the phony customer was only after her money.

The con, using the name “Tracy Stroller,” wrote, “My son Trevor suffered slight shock from the accident that my husband died in. It happened while we were on our yearly family vacation in the mountains of Billings Montana in 2006. I was informed that exposure and a change of environment could ease his ordeal mentally. We are currently in the Republic of Benin on an antique auction but Trevor will be coming over to SEATTLE before the 15th JULY and will stay as his godfather because we will both be staying there for 3months while he’s godfather is away (sic)…”

The message asks about the teacher’s qualifications and whether she will accept checks or money orders as payment. “Tracy Stoller” sent a follow-up email, stating, “if i decide to send you money order or a check from here it could fall in the wrong hands and take up to 21 days but within the states its much easier. (sic)”

The teacher replied that she would prefer a money order. Shortly thereafter, she received a package containing four money orders, each for $832 from someone named “David Collins.”

“Tracy Stroller” wrote again, asking the teacher to take the funds to her bank immediately and keep a portion as her payment plus an additional $200. She should then send the remainder by wire transfer to an address in New Jersey. The con claimed the extra money was needed to pay for Trevor’s airline ticket. Someone then called the teacher at her home early on the Fourth of July and told her that she had to cash the checks immediately. She could hear other voices in the background. The teacher instead turned the checks over to the Attorney General’s Office.

Castleberry shuts food plant in wake of botulism scare

Here's more on the Castleberry food botulism recalls from CBS News:

Castleberry Food Co. is recalling every product manufactured on a specific production line in the past two years in response to four cases of botulism poisoning in Texas and Indiana.

The production line is one of "four or five" in its Augusta, Ga., facility. On Saturday night the company also shut down the entire plant for one week while it investigates the cause of the botulism poisoning.

Black and Decker Recalls Trimmers

(Click for larger image)

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Black & Decker GH1000 Grasshog XP String Trimmer/Edgers

Units: About 202,000

Manufacturer: Black & Decker (U.S.) Inc., of Towson, Md.

Hazard: The trimmer/edger’s spool, spool cap and pieces of trimmer string can come loose during use and become airborne projectiles, posing a laceration hazard to the user as well as bystanders. The trimmer/edgers can also overheat posing a burn hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: Black & Decker has received 707 reports of incidents, including 58 reports of injuries. Serious injuries included cuts to two consumers’ legs that required medical attention. Minor injuries included bruises, lacerations, and facial injuries such as a welt and broken skin over a consumer’s eye. There were also reports of property damage, including two broken windows.

Description: The Black & Decker GH1000 Grasshog XP String Trimmers/Edgers are electric-powered. Trimmer/edgers with date codes 200546 through 200645 (representing manufacture dates of November 14, 2005 through November 6, 2006) are included in this recall. The date code is located on the underside of the trimmer/edger’s handle. Only trimmers with black spools caps are included in the recall. Those with orange spool caps are not included in the recall.

Sold at: Major home center and hardware stores nationwide from November 2005 through January 2007 for about $70.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the string trimmers/edgers immediately and contact Black & Decker for a free repair kit.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Black & Decker at (888) 742-9158 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.blackanddecker.com

Menards Stores recalls Reclining Lounge Chairs for Collapsing Hazard

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Lounge Chairs

Units: About 15,000

Manufacturer: Yotrio International LLC, of Orinda, Calif.

Hazard: Faulty support brackets and/or weak frames can cause the chairs to collapse, posing a fall and severe laceration hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: Yotrio has received one report of a chair collapsing causing to the consumer to fall to the ground. No injuries have been reported.

Description: This recall involves Rockingham deluxe reclining lounge chairs. The folding lounge chairs have an orange mesh covering that attaches to a steel frame by a woven cord. The high-back chairs measure 40-inches long by 28-inches wide by 46-inches high and have a padded headrest. A hangtag attached to the chair reads in part “Backyard Creations” and “Deluxe Rockingham Reclining Chair.”

Sold at: Menards stores from March 2007 through May 2007 for between $40 and $60.

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled chairs immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Yotrio at (800) 793-7055 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. PT Monday through Friday. Consumers can also visit the firm’s Web site at www.yotrioint.com

CVS recalls Playskool Sippy Cups

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Playskool Toddler “NoSpill” Sippy Cups

Importer: CVS/pharmacy, of Woonsocket, R.I.

Hazard: Young children can chew through the plastic spout of the sippy cup, which can pose a choking hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received 36 reports of toddlers chewing through the plastic spout of the sippy cup, resulting in one choking incident and three near-choking incidents. No injuries have been reported.

Description: This recall involves the Playskool Toddler “NoSpill” Sippy Cup. The 8-ounce cup is clear plastic with red trim, red and yellow handles, and a yellow tip; blue trim, blue and green handles and a green tip; or purple trim, purple and aqua handles, and an aqua tip. The serial number of the recalled cups is 382814, which appears on the back of the packaging.

Sold by: CVS stores nationwide from September 2006 through April 2007 for about $5.

Remedy: Consumers should stop their children from using the cup immediately and return it to any CVS store for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact CVS/pharmacy toll-free at (866) 434-0098 between 8:30 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, visit CVS/pharmacy’s Web site at www.cvs.com, or e-mail the company at playskoolinfo@cvs.com

FDA Expands Its Warning about the Risk of Botulism Poisoning From Certain Castleberry Food Products and Dog Food

Press release from the FDA:

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is expanding its July 18 warning to consumers. This expansion is for consumers and pet owners regarding canned food products and dog food produced by Castleberry Food Company of Augusta, Ga., due to the risk of botulinum toxin. Castleberry is expanding the recall to include all of the following canned products with all "best by" and code dates, and FDA is warning consumers not to purchase or eat any of the canned products listed in the table below.

Hot Dog Chili Sauces	SIZE	UPC CODES
Austex Onion Hot Dog Chili Sauce	10 OZ	30300-97101
Austex Hot Dog Chili Sauce	10 OZ	30300-99533
Castleberry's Hot Dog Chili Sauce	10 OZ	30300-00101
Castleberry's Onion Hot Dog Chili Sauce	10 OZ	30300-07101
Bunker Hill Hot Dog Chili Sauce	10 OZ	75266-04152
Kroger Hot Dog Chili Sauce	10 OZ	11110-83942
Meijer Hot Dog Chili Sauce	10 OZ	41250-85862
Food Lion Hot Dog Chili Sauce	10 OZ	35826-06911
Bloom Hot Dog Chili Sauce	10 OZ	25439-92448
Thrifty Maid Hot Dog Chili Sauce	10 OZ	21140-21367
Natural Balance Eatables dog food varieties:
Irish Stew with Beef Dog Food	15 OZ	23633-59860
Chinese Take Out with Sauce with Vegetables and Chicken Dog Food	15 OZ	23633-59861
Southern Style Dumplings with Gravy with Chicken and Vegetables Dog Food	15 OZ	23633-59862
Hobo Chili with Chicken Pasta Dog Food	15 OZ	23633-59863

The agency is expanding its warning based in part on FDA test results and information obtained during a joint FDA and U.S. Department of Agriculture inspection of the Castleberry’s facility in Augusta, Ga.

Exposure to botulinum toxin can be fatal and two people in Texas and two people in Indiana remain seriously ill and hospitalized with botulism poisoning associated with eating Castleberry's Hot Dog Chili Sauce.

While the previous recall and the known illnesses are linked to production dates of April 30 to May 22, 2007, the firm has extended the recall to include all products listed irrespective of "best by" date. The firm is cooperating with FDA in the recall of these products and has ceased processing and distribution.

In addition, Castleberry is recalling other products containing meat, which are regulated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. USDA is also warning the public not to eat certain brands of Castleberry products containing meat. The list of these USDA-regulated products can be viewed at this link to the USDA website:

http://www.fsis.usda.gov/News_&_Events/Recall_033_2007_Release/index.asp

Consumers who have any of these products or any foods made with these products should throw them away immediately. Double bag the cans in plastic bags that are tightly closed then place in a trash receptacle for non-recyclable trash outside of the home. Additional instructions for safe disposal can be found at www.cdc.gov/botulism/botulism_faq.htm

Retailers that have any of these products are asked to assure that they are removed from use and do not accidentally get reintroduced for sale, service or donation.

Symptoms of botulism poisoning in humans can begin from 6 hours to 2 weeks after eating food that contains the toxin. Symptoms may include double vision, blurred vision, drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty swallowing, and muscle weakness that moves progressively down the body, affecting the shoulders first then descending to the upper arms, lower arms, thighs, calves, etc. Botulism poisoning can also cause paralysis of the breathing muscles which can result in death unless assistance with breathing (mechanical ventilation) is provided. Individuals who show these symptoms and who may have recently eaten one of the Castleberry’s products currently under recall should seek immediate medical attention.

The disease has only been seen occasionally in dogs and has not been reported in cats. Ferrets are highly susceptible to botulinum toxin. The incubation period can be 2 hours to 2 weeks; in most cases, the symptoms appear after 12 to 24 hours. Botulism is characterized by progressive motor paralysis. Typical clinical signs may include muscle paralysis, difficulty breathing, chewing and swallowing, visual disturbances and generalized weakness may also occur. Death usually results from paralysis of the respiratory or cardiac muscles. Pet owners who have used these products and whose pets have these symptoms should contact their veterinarian immediately. At this time we are not aware of pet illnesses associated with these products although we recommend that all these products should be discarded.

Castleberry recommends consumers with any questions or concerns about this recall should go to Castleberry’s website (www.castleberrys.com) or call Castleberry’s consumer hotline at 1-800-203-4412 or 1-888-203-8446.

Consumers with questions can call FDA at 1-888-SAFEFOOD.

President forms import safety panel

Concern over consumer and food imports hits the highest levels:

The White House on Wednesday ordered the formation of an import safety panel to review strategy in the wake of a series of consumer and food product scares that have raised concerns over the safety of products from China.

President George W. Bush formed the import safety working group, comprising government agencies, and asked Michael Leavitt, secretary of health and human services, to chair the group and report back in 60 days.

"The world is changing, and in order to make sure that we can continue to have the confidence of our consumers, we will continually review practices and procedures to assure the American consumer," the president said. "This is a serious issue."

Andrew von Eschenbach, FDA commissioner, this week tried to reassure a congressional committee that the FDA was acting quickly to counter any threat and was using science to monitor threats. He created the position of food protection commissioner, and said the agency was planning negotiation of two memoranda of understanding with Chinese regulators to address food, feed and medical product safety issues.

But he warned that the FDA's regulatory structure and methods were nearly 40 years old and designed for a less complex world with products sourced and made in the US rather than the "increasing volume from overseas, often from countries with emerging regulatory systems".

The White House denied that the new panel was intended specifically to monitor China and its products.

I'd be skeptical about that.

More here from MSNBC, or listen to audio from the White House here (mp3 file). White House Executive Order here.

Toshiba recalls more Sony laptop batteries

From Switched.com:

Toshiba is the latest victim of Sony's massive battery recall, which has resulted in the recall of some 9.6 million batteries manufactured during December of 2005 after three incidents in which the batteries burst into flames. Toshiba says the recall affects 5,100 of its units, and is pointing customers toward its page for the battery recall program where they can see if their laptops are affected, and if they qualify for a free replacement.

With Sony having to swallow the cost of nearly 10 million battery recalls, is it any wonder the PS3 is so expensive? And what took Toshiba so long to decide it needed to recall the batteries? Toshiba had to have known for some time that it made laptops with defective batteries in them. What, was some bean counter sitting there weighing the recall cost against the probability of another battery injuring a customer? Thankfully in the end, reason won out over the bottom line.

Visit here for support information and model numbers.

Now it's Mexican food products, too

Is your cantaloupe safe?

Who's minding the store?

The FDA banned all cantaloupe from Mexico in 2002 after four salmonella outbreaks traced to the fruit killed two people in the United States and hospitalized at least 18 others.

While some Mexican cantaloupe exporters have regained the FDA's trust by adopting cleaner irrigation methods, Mexican melons are often contaminated by sewage-laced water. In June alone, the FDA rejected six shipments of Mexican cantaloupe, 4 percent of the 139 total shipments from Mexico, because of salmonella.

Mexican green onions were blamed for a 2003 outbreak of hepatitis A in Pennsylvania that was traced to the Chi-Chi's restaurant chain. Four people died and more than 600 people were sickened.

And three Mexican candy manufacturers, including two subsidiaries of Mars Inc. and Hershey Co., agreed last year to lead testing and annual audits after The Orange County Register found that California state and federal regulators knew spicy Mexican candies could cause lead poisoning in children, but did nothing.

Read more here at CNN.

New Easy-Bake Oven Recall Following Partial Finger Amputation; Consumers Urged to Return Toy Ovens

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Easy-Bake Ovens

Units: About 1 million

Manufacturer: Easy-Bake, a division of Hasbro, Inc., of Pawtucket, R.I

Hazard: Young children can insert their hands into the oven’s front opening, and get their hands or fingers caught, posing entrapment and burn hazards.

Incidents/Injuries: Since a repair program announced in February, Easy-Bake has received 249 reports of children getting their hands or fingers caught in the oven’s opening, including 77 reports of burns, 16 of which were reported as second and third-degree burns. Easy-Bake also received one report of a serious burn that required a partial finger amputation to a 5-year-old girl.

Description: The Easy-Bake Oven is a purple and pink plastic oven that resembles a kitchen range with four burners on top and a front-loading oven. “Easy Bake” is printed on the front of the oven. Model number 65805 and “Hasbro” are stamped into the plastic on the back of the oven. This recall includes all units with the retrofit kit. The Easy-Bake Oven is an electric toy and is not recommended for children under eight years of age. Ovens sold before May 2006 are not included in this recall.

Sold at: Toys “R” Us, Wal-Mart, Target, KB Toys and other retailers nationwide from May 2006 through July 2007 for about $25.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Caregivers should immediately take the recalled Easy-Bake Oven away from children, and call Easy-Bake for instructions on how to return the toy oven for a voucher towards the purchase of another Hasbro product.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Easy-Bake at (800) 601-8418 anytime, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.easybake.com

Atico International USA Recalls Coffeemakers Sold Exclusively at Walgreens Due to Fire Hazard

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Signature Gourmet™ and Kitchen Gourmet® 12-Cup Coffeemakers

Units: About 392,000

Importer/Distributor: Atico International USA Inc., of Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Hazard: The coffeemaker can ignite due to an electrical failure, posing a fire hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: Atico International USA, Inc. has received 14 reports of electrical failures, including six reports in which the unit ignited causing minor property damage. No injuries have been reported.

Description: The coffeemaker is white with a glass coffeepot. Signature Gourmet™ or Kitchen Gourmet® is printed on the front of the unit. The Model Number (XQ-673B), Item Number (W14A4984) and date code are located on the bottom of the unit. Only units with date codes from May 2003 (0503) through July 2006 (0706) are affected by this recall.

Sold at: Walgreens stores nationwide from August 2003 through December 2006. The Signature Gourmet™ model sold for about $16 and the Kitchen Gourmet® model sold for about $10.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the recalled coffeemakers immediately and contact Atico International USA for instructions on returning the product for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: Consumers should call Atico International USA toll-free at (877) 546-4835 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the company’s Web site at www.aticousa.com

Brake Cylinder Recalled By Magura USA for Brake Failure Hazard on Off-Road Motorcycles

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: 190 Radial Brake Master Cylinders (used on off-road motorcyles)

Units: About 200

Distributor: Magura USA, of Olney, Ill.

Manufacturer: Gustav Magenwirth GmbH, of Bad Urach, Germany

Hazard: The brake cylinder on the off-road motorcycle can crack and result in brake failure. This poses a risk of severe injury or death to the driver.

Incidents/Injuries: No incidents or injuries have been reported.

Description: This recall involves 190 Radial Brake Master Cylinders used on off-road motorcycles. The brake cylinders have an “A” or “B” code on the underside of the lever’s pivot bolt. The Magura logo is printed on the cylinder. Brake cylinders without the “A” or “B” markings are not included in this recall.

Sold by: Motorcycle dealers nationwide, mail-order catalogues and Web retailers from August 2005 through May 2007 for about $420.

Manufactured in: Germany

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the off-road motorcycles with recalled brake cylinders and contact Magura USA to receive a replacement product.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Magura USA at (800) 448-3876 between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. CT, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.magurausa.com - consumers can also email the firm at techquestion@magurausa.com or write to Magura USA at 724 West Clem Street, Olney, Ill. 62450.

Children’s Earrings Sold at Wal-Mart Stores in Florida Recalled by Uncas Manufacturing Co. Due to Lead Poisoning Hazard

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Sleeping Beauty Crown and Cinderella Star Earring Sets

Units: About 220

Manufacturer: Uncas Manufacturing Company, of Providence, RI

Hazard: The recalled metal earring sets contain high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: This recall involves the Sleeping Beauty Crown and the Cinderella Star Earring sets. The Sleeping Beauty Crown set contains two pairs of earrings; one pair is shaped as pink crowns and the other pair is shaped as the Sleeping Beauty character. The Cinderella Star Earring set contains two pairs of earrings; one pair is shaped as blue stars and the other one is shaped as the Cinderella character. The packaging is shaped as a pink heart and “The Wonderful World of Disney” is printed in the front.

Sold at: Wal-Mart Stores in Florida from February 2007 to June 2007 for about $5.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take this recalled jewelry away from children and return it to Uncas Manufacturing Co. for a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact the firm at (800) 776-0980 between 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or e-mail the firm at skenney@uncas.com

Vance Kitira Recalls Cinnamon Spice Candles Due to Fire Hazard

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The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Cinnamon Spice Candles

Units: About 2,000

Importer: Vance Kitira International, of Little Falls, N.J.

Hazard: There are no instructions on the candle warning consumers to remove the cinnamon sticks and trim the wick before lighting the candle. The cinnamon sticks can ignite, posing a fire hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received one report of a cinnamon stick igniting and causing a small fire contained to the candle. No injuries have been reported.

Description: The recalled candle is 4-inches in diameter and 6-inches tall with a long wick that ties two cinnamon sticks to the top of the candle. The candle is brown and cream in color. The item number (CS406BR) and “CinnSpc Cndl 4x6 Brown $19.99," and "Made in Thailand” are printed on the label on the bottom of the candle.

Sold at: Department stores and candle retailers nationwide from May 2006 through June 2007 for about $20.

Manufactured in: Thailand

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the candles and contact the firm for instructions on how to remove the cinnamon sticks and trim the wick.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, call Vance Kitira at (800) 646-6360 between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at http://vancekitira.com

AAFES Expands Recall of “Soldier Bear” Toy Sets Due to Lead Poisoning Hazard

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Soldier Bear Brand Toy Sets

Units: About 13,000 (about 3,000 Invincibles Transport Converter Toy Sets were recalled on May 23, 2007)

Importer/Retailer: AAFES (Army & Air Force Exchange Service), of Dallas, Texas

Manufacturer: Toy Century Industrial Ltd., of Hong Kong

Hazard: Surface paints on the toy action figures, dinosaurs and animals contain high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: This recall involves toy sets with various action figures, dinosaurs, animals and vehicles. The style number, Universal Product Code and Soldier Bear logo are printed on the product’s packaging.


Sold at: AAFES stores worldwide from August 2005 through April 2007 for between $5 and $15.

Manufactured in: Hong Kong

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the toys away from children and return the product to the nearest AAFES store for full refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, call AAFES at (800) 866-3605 anytime or visit the firm’s Web site at www.aafes.com

Injuries Prompt Recall of Combination Tire Inflator and Hand Pumps by Genuine Innovations

Genuine Innovations Second Wind MTB



Wrench Force Two Shot


The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Combination Tire Inflator and Hand Pumps

Units: About 55,000

Importer: Innovations In Cycling Inc., doing business as Genuine Innovations, of Tucson, Ariz.

Hazard: The combination tire inflator and hand pump can shatter under pressure when inflating tires if there is a blockage in the tire valve, posing the risk of bruises, lacerations, and ringing in the ears to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received 12 reports of combination tire inflator and hand pumps exploding. Six injuries were reported, including lacerations, temporary ringing in ear and bruising.

Description: This recall involves the Genuine Innovations Second Wind MTB model with part numbers 2525, 2525-O or 3519 and the Wrench Force Two Shot model with part numbers 84995 or 80383 combination tire inflator and hand pumps. These devices consist of a hand pump and CO2 cartridge inflator. The part number can only be found on the packaging.

Sold at: Specialty retail stores nationwide and bicycle or motorcycle/ATV catalogues and online stores. The Genuine Innovations Second Wind MTB and the Wrench Force Two Shot were sold from January 2004 through May 2007 for about $30. The Second Wind MTB was sold as part of the Genuine Innovations ATV Deluxe Tire Repair & Inflation Kit from July 2005 to January 2007 for about $50.

Manufactured in: United States and Taiwan

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the combination tire inflator and hand pumps and contact the firm for a free replacement pump head.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Innovations In Cycling at (800) 340-1050 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. MT Monday through Thursday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.genuineinnovations.com

Sportsman’s Warehouse Recalls Flashlights; Counterfeit Batteries Can Overheat, Posing a Fire Hazard

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Xenon Aluminum Flashlights

Units: About 4,400

Distributor: Sportsman’s Warehouse, of Midvale, Utah

Hazard: The batteries packaged with the recalled flashlights are labeled as “Panasonic CR123A Industrial Lithium” and have been determined by Panasonic to be counterfeit. The counterfeit batteries can overheat and rupture, posing a fire and burn hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: Sportsman’s Warehouse has received two reports of batteries overheating and flashlights igniting, with one consumer receiving burns to his hands.

Description: The recall involves High Intensity Xenon Aluminum Flashlights in 6-volt (Item No. 1139422), 9-volt (Item No. 1139423) and 12-volt (Item No. 1139424) models. The recalled flashlights are black and have the Sportsman’s Warehouse logo printed on the handle. The recalled flashlights were packaged with two, three or four batteries labeled as “Panasonic CR123A Industrial Lithium”.

Sold at: Sportsman’s Warehouse stores nationwide from October 2006 through May 2007 for between $30 and $40.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately remove and discontinue using the batteries from the recalled flashlights. Consumers can return the recalled flashlights and batteries to any Sportsman’s Warehouse store for a full refund or store credit.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Sportsman’s Warehouse toll-free at (877) 678-0010 between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. MT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.sportsmanswarehouse.com (PDF)

Payless ShoeSource Expands Recall of Children’s Clog Shoes Due to Choking Hazard

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Toddler Clog Shoes

Units: About 270,000 (about 690,000 clogs were recalled on May 2, 2007)

Manufacturer: Payless ShoeSource, Inc., of Topeka, Kan.

Hazard: Plastic rivets used to attach the strap to the shoe can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children.

Incidents/Injuries: No injuries or incidents have been reported.

Description: This recall involves the following character-themed clog styles: Dora the Explorer, Spongebob Squarepants, Hello Kitty, Coasters® Lighted Car Compel, and Cambridge Mary-Jane. The shoes were sold in toddler sizes 5 through 10. The flexible shoes have air ventilation holes on the top and/or side, and plastic rivets attached to the strap. Shoe sizes are printed on the sole of the shoe. No other sizes, styles or models are included in the recall.

Sold at: Payless ShoeSource stores nationwide and Payless.com from January 2006 through June 2007 for between $15 and $20.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should take the shoes away from young children immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a refund or exchange.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, call Payless at (800) 654-0697 between 7:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. CT Monday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. and 6 p.m. Sunday. Consumers can also visit the firm’s Web site at www.payless.com

Petters Consumer Brands Recalls Sunbeam Over-the-Range Microwaves for Fire Hazard

From the Consumer Product Safety Commission:

The following product safety recall was voluntarily conducted by the firm in cooperation with the CPSC. Consumers should stop using the product immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Sunbeam Over-the-Range Microwaves

Units: About 300

Importer/Distributor: Petters Consumer Brands LLC, of Minnetonka, Minn.

Hazard: Internal electrical arcing in the microwave can pose a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: This recall involves Sunbeam Over-the-Range microwave ovens with serial numbers within the range of A0701161370000001 through A0701161370000304. The serial numbers are located on the inside front of the microwave and visible when the microwave door is open. Model number SNM1501RAQ is printed on a label on the back of the unit. The ovens display Sunbeam on the front panel, are bisque in color, and are 16.25 inches high x 29.5 inches wide x 15 inches deep. The microwaves ovens were installed in mobile homes.

Sold with: Mobile homes from February 2007 through March 2007.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the microwaves and contact Petters to receive a replacement microwave. The manufacturer of the mobile homes that contain the recalled microwave ovens is notifying consumers directly.

Consumer Contact: For more information, call Petters Consumer Brands toll-free at (866) 866-6283 between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, between 9 a.m. and 11 p.m. ET Saturday, and between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. ET Sunday. Consumers also can log on to: www.sunbeammajorappliances.com

Meyer Recalls Cooking Torches Due to Fire Hazard

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: BonJour® Professional Culinary Torches

Units: About 4,400 (about 40 with consumers)

Importer: Meyer Corporation, U.S., of Vallejo, Calif.

Hazard: Butane fuel can leak from the torch assembly near the nozzle, posing a fire hazard.

Incidents/Injuries: Meyer has received four reports of fuel leakage. No injuries or property damage have been reported.

Description: This recall involves the BonJour® Professional Culinary Torch sold alone and as part of the BonJour® Bain Marie Set. The torch is 7.5 inches high and has a visible fuel gauge. The base is black, and the handle is either black or brown. The torch assembly is silver-colored with the word “BonJour” printed on the side.

Sold at: Various retailers nationwide from October 2006 through May 2007 for about $40 (when sold alone) or about $70 (when included as part of the Bain Marie Set).

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: should immediately stop using the torches and contact Meyer for a refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Meyer at (800) 226-6568 between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.meyer.com

Milwaukee Electric Tool Co. recalls batteries used with power tools

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Milwaukee Power Plus, Chicago Pneumatic, and Extractor 14.4 and 18 volt 2.4 Ah NiCd battery packs

Units: About 1 million

Manufacturer/Importer: Milwaukee Electric Tool Co., of Brookfield, Wis.

Hazard: If a vent on the battery cell is damaged or compromised during use, the battery can explode and pose a laceration hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: Milwaukee Electric Tool Co. has received 35 reports of incidents, including 11 injuries from battery packs exploding while in use. Injuries include minor cuts, bruises and some hearing loss.

Description: The recalled batteries are used to power drills, saws, radios, flashlights, wrenches and Extractor windshield glass removers. The recall includes 14.4 and 18 volt 2.4 Ah NiCd Milwaukee Power Plus, Chicago Pneumatic, and Extractor battery packs manufactured between July 1999 and February 2004. The brand name can be found on a label on most battery packs. However, some 14.4 Volt 2.4Ah packs did not have “Power Plus” on the label. The battery packs were sold both with tool kits and as individual battery packs. Battery packs manufactured after February 2004 are not included in this recall.

Sold by: Home centers, hardware stores, industrial distributors and vehicle service distributors nationwide from July 1999 through 2005.

Manufactured in: Mexico

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled battery packs. Consumers should contact the Milwaukee Electric Tool Co. to determine if they have one of the recalled batteries. The company will provide a free replacement battery pack for consumers with recalled units.

Consumer Contact: For more information, contact Milwaukee Electric Tool Co. at (800) 729-3878 between 7 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site.

Business Week explores the Chinese tire problem

This isn't a blog about the problems with Chinese products, but they certainly have had a rough stretch. Business Week weighed in with this piece yesterday about an importer whose business may be ruined by the problems with Chinese-made tires:

Richard Kuskin was sitting in the dingy basement office of his Union (N.J.) import firm one day in May, 2006, when the phone rang. One of his distributors in New Mexico was on the line. There had been an accident involving an ambulance riding on Chinese-made tires sold by Kuskin's firm, Foreign Tires Sales Inc. The tires had blown out, causing the driver to lose control. No one was hurt. Still, the incident scared Kuskin. For several months he'd had a nagging feeling that his Chinese partner, Hangzhou Zhongce Rubber Co., had cut out a key safety technology. For Kuskin, the ambulance incident was like a flashing red warning light.

After hanging up, Kuskin called his engineer, Gary Eiber, and dispatched him to New Mexico with instructions to inspect the shredded tires. Then Kuskin called a product liability attorney. Kuskin knew the costs of a recall could crush his company, which has 13 employees and last year sold just 700,000 tires. He also knew that getting Hangzhou Zhongce to pay for some of the recall would be hard. Chinese companies aren't legally obligated to execute U.S.-ordered recalls, and, says Kuskin, his supplier was denying there was a problem. "I didn't sleep too good that night," he recalls.

There were more sleepless nights to come. Over the next few months, consumer complaints about faulty tires made by Hangzhou Zhongce and sold by Foreign Tire and several other companies trickled in. There were more accidents, including a fatal one that has sparked a lawsuit and prompted the Feds to recall 450,000 tires. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is now weighing an investigation into whether FTS moved quickly enough when the first tire defects were reported. NHTSA is also looking into whether other tire distributors have also sold potentially faulty tires manufactured by Hangzhou Zhongce.

China executes food safety chief

Spokeswoman Yan Jiangying, courtesy of VOA

The whole world has been buzzing over this one today. At the risk of being flippant, we're not quite that tough over here, are we?

China's food and drug administration spokeswoman, Yan Jiangying, acknowledged to reporters Tuesday China's food and drug safety was "unsatisfactory" and the country was facing a tough situation in supervising standards.

"As a developing country, China's food and drug supervision work began late and its foundations are weak," she said. "Therefore, the food and drug safety situation is not something we can be optimistic about."

Yan's comments came as the official Xinhua news agency reported the execution of the former head of the food and drug administration, Zheng Xiaoyu, after he was found guilty of corruption and dereliction of duty.

Zheng was sentenced to death in May for accepting cash and gifts worth more than $830,000 from pharmaceutical companies. Xinhua said his appeal was rejected because of the immense damage he had caused to public health and safety.

During his time as chief, the administration approved many medicines that did not meet standards, including six fake drugs. Zheng was the highest level official to be executed in seven years.

(More here at Voice of America.)

The bottom line: China is admittedly incapable of policing its hundreds of thousands of small producers.

FDA Warns Consumers Not to Eat Veggie Booty Snack Food

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is warning consumers not to eat Veggie Booty flavor of snack food, marketed by Robert's American Gourmet, due to possible contamination with Salmonella Wandsworth, bacteria that cause gastrointestinal illness.

FDA advises consumers to throw away any Robert's American Gourmet brand Veggie Booty they have in their home. Veggie Booty is sold in a flexible plastic foil bag in four ounce, one ounce, and one-half ounce packages. No other flavors or varieties of snack food marketed by Robert's American Gourmet have been associated with Salmonella Wandsworth contamination.

Veggie Booty is often consumed by children, so parents are encouraged to watch their children, and seek medical care if they observe signs of illness.

Individuals who have recently eaten Veggie Booty and who have experienced any of the symptoms described below should contact a doctor or other health care provider immediately. Any such illnesses in persons with a recent history of eating Veggie Booty should be reported to state or local health authorities.

This warning is based on 52 reports of illness across 17 states, beginning in March 2007. Almost all the illnesses have occurred in children under 10 years old, with the most cases in toddlers. Most persons had reported bloody diarrhea; four were hospitalized. FDA learned of the illnesses on June 27 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which conducted an investigation of the illnesses with state and local health officials. The outbreak is considered likely to be ongoing.

Salmonella typically causes diarrhea (may be bloody); the diarrhea is often accompanied by abdominal cramps and fever. Symptoms typically begin within one to four days after exposure to the bacteria. In infants, persons with poor underlying health and those with weakened immune systems, Salmonella can invade the bloodstream and cause life-threatening infections.

States reporting illnesses include: California (seven cases), Colorado (five cases), Connecticut (one case), Georgia (one case), Indiana (one case), Massachusetts (three cases), Minnesota (two cases), New Hampshire (two cases), New Jersey (two cases), New York (13 cases), Oregon (one case), Pennsylvania (three cases), Tennessee (one), Texas (one), Vermont (three cases), Washington (four cases), and Wisconsin (two cases).

Robert's American Gourmet, of Sea Cliff, N.Y., which markets Veggie Booty, and its contract manufacturer, are fully cooperating with FDA's investigation into the cause of the contamination. Manufacturing and distribution of this product has ceased, and Robert's American Gourmet is recalling all potentially contaminated product, including all expiration dates and lot codes. The product is sold in all 50 states and Canada at retail locations and over the Internet.

FDA’s comprehensive investigation has begun at the manufacturing facility, focused on identifying the source of the contamination. Product samples have been collected and will be analyzed in FDA laboratories. Typical microbiological analysis takes approximately seven days. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are also continuing their investigation in close collaboration with state health departments and FDA. FDA will provide additional updates as the investigation progresses and more information becomes available.

FDA Detains Imports of Farm-Raised Chinese Seafood

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today announced (June 28) a broader import control of all farm-raised catfish, basa, shrimp, dace (related to carp), and eel from China. FDA will start to detain these products at the border until the shipments are proven to be free of residues from drugs that are not approved in the United States for use in farm-raised aquatic animals.

This action by FDA, a part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, will protect American consumers from unsafe residues that have been detected in these products. There have been no reports of illnesses to date.

"We're taking this strong step because of current and continuing evidence that certain Chinese aquaculture products imported into the United States contain illegal substances that are not permitted in seafood sold in the United States," said Dr. David Acheson, FDA's assistant commissioner for food protection. "We will accept entries of these products from Chinese firms that demonstrate compliance with our requirements and safety standards."

During targeted sampling from October 2006 through May 2007, FDA repeatedly found that farm-raised seafood imported from China were contaminated with antimicrobial agents that are not approved for this use in the United States.

The contaminants were the antimicrobials nitrofuran, malachite green, gentian violet, and fluoroquinolone. Nitrofuran, malachite green, and gentian violet have been shown to be carcinogenic with long-term exposure in lab animals. The use of fluoroquinolones in food animals may increase antibiotic resistance to this critically important class of antibiotics.

None of these substances is approved for use in farm-raised seafood in the United States, and the use of nitrofurans and malachite green in aquaculture is also prohibited by Chinese authorities. Chinese officials have acknowledged that fluoroquinolones are used in Chinese aquaculture and are permitted for use in China.

The levels of the drug residues that have been found in seafood are very low, most often at or near the minimum level of detection. FDA is not seeking recall of products already in U.S. commerce and is not advising consumers to destroy or return imported farm-raised seafood they may already have in their homes. FDA is concerned about long term exposure as well as the possible development of antibiotic resistance.

The FDA action includes conditions under which an exporter can be exempted from FDA's detention action by providing specified information to the agency. This information must demonstrate the exporter has implemented steps to ensure its products do not contain these substances and that preventive controls are in place. The additional import controls placed on seafood from China will last as long as needed.

FDA may allow the entry into the United States and subsequent distribution into the marketplace of individual shipments of the Chinese farm-raised seafood products if the company provides documentation to confirm the products are free of residues of these drugs.

Children’s Metal Jewelry Recalled by Future Industries Due to Lead Poisoning Hazard

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Essentials for Kids Jewelry Sets

Units: About 20,000

Importer: Future Industries, of Cliffwood Beach, N.J.

Hazard: The recalled metal jewelry sets contain high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Description: The recalled jewelry sets include a necklace, bracelet and pair of earrings made of green, blue or pink plastic beads. The necklaces have painted metallic pendants in the shape of shoes, girls, blackboards with “ABCD,” or school buses. The other recalled jewelry sets include a necklace and seven pendants, one for each day of the week. The pendants are shaped as sandals, purses or butterflies. “Essentials for kids” is printed on the packaging.

Sold at: Gift stores, dollar stores, and small discount stores nationwide from August 2005 through April 2007 for about $1.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take the recalled jewelry away from children. Return it to the store where purchased for a full refund, or contact Future Industries for information on receiving a full refund.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Future Industries at (800) 929-0006 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday.

Serious Intestinal Injury Prompts Kipp Brothers Recall of Mag Stix Magnetic Building Sets

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Mag Stix Magnetic Building Sets

Units: About 800

Distributor: Kipp Brothers, of Carmel, Ind.

Hazard: Small magnets inside the plastic sticks can fall out. Magnets found by young children can be swallowed or aspirated. If more than one magnet is swallowed, the magnets can attract each other and cause intestinal perforation or blockage, which can be fatal.

Incidents/Injuries: CPSC has received one report of an eight-year-old girl who was hospitalized after swallowing loose magnets. Extensive surgery was required to remove the magnets and repair intestinal perforations.

Description: The recalled Mag Stix sets contain 24 pieces including twelve 1-inch sticks, four 2.25-inch sticks, and eight metal balls. The sticks are yellow, green, blue and rust-colored. “Item No. 40330 Made in China” and UPC number 7 7704 40330 1 are printed on the packaging.

Sold at: Kipp Brothers’ showroom, Fall 2005 catalog and Web site (order # NB8141) from September 2005 through March 2006 for about $3.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately take these recalled toys away from children and contact Kipp Brothers for instructions on returning the product for a full refund (including shipping).

Consumer Contact: For additional information, call Kipp Brothers at (800) 428-1153 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the Web site at www.kipptoys.com

Infantino Recalls Children’s Toy Castles Due to Choking Hazard

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Shape Sorting Toy Castles

Units: About 68,000

Manufacturer: Infantino LLC, of San Diego, Calif.

Hazard: The plastic rod can come loose allowing the colored counting beads to slide off of the toy, posing a choking hazard to young children.

Incidents/Injuries: Infantino has received four reports of children nearly choking on the colored beads after putting them in their mouths.

Description: The recalled toy castles have counting beads, four play figures and several different shapes and letters that fit into holes in the castle. “infantino®” is printed in the lower right-hand corner of the side with the letters. The recall only includes castles with the following date codes: 5349, 6087, 6132 and 0906. Castles with other date codes, no date code or with a plastic rod attached with a metal screw are not included in this recall. The date code is stamped on the underside of the blue top and can be viewed through the top square shape or top “A” letter openings.

Sold at: Wal-Mart, Target, Marshalls, Meijers and other specialty toy retailers nationwide from January 2006 through May 2007 for about $12.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should take the recalled toy away from young children immediately and contact Infantino for instructions on how to return the product for a free replacement. A free return shipping label can be accessed on the firm’s Web site.

Consumer Contact: For more information, call Infantino toll-free at (888) 808-3111 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. PT Monday through Friday or visit the firm’s Web site at service.infantino.com

Hammock Stands Recalled by The Algoma Net Co. Due to Fall Hazard

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Hammock Stands

Units: About 3,000

Importer: The Algoma Net Co., of Algoma, Wis.

Manufacturer: Danlong Industries Ltd., of China

Hazard: The foot brackets on the hammock frame can crack or tear, causing a consumer to fall to the ground.

Incidents/Injuries: Algoma has received 28 reports of foot brackets cracking or tearing, including eight reports of users falling to the ground. One consumer reported lower back pain and nerve damage, and one consumer reported cutting her lip.

Description: The recall includes Algoma hammock stands model numbers 6250, 6250BH, and 6290W88B. They were sold with a cotton rope hammock with wood spreader bars and attached chains. The frame is made of steel and has five separate tubular pieces, including two foot brackets. The model number is located at the top of the instruction sheet that was provided with the hammock stand.

Sold at: Kohl’s, D.S.I./Supervalu, Fingerhut, Mills Fleet Farm, Shopko Stores, Inc. and Target.com from December 2006 through May 2007 for between $100 and $150.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the hammock stands and contact Algoma for instructions on returning the foot brackets for a free replacement. The recalled units should not be returned to the retailer.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Algoma at (800) 800-7083 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.algomanet.com

Fire Hazard with Thermador® Built-In Ovens Leads to Recall by BSH Home Appliances Corp.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Thermador® Brand Built-In Ovens

Units: About 42,000

Manufacturer: BSH Home Appliances Corp., of Huntington Beach, Calif.

Hazard: The oven can have gaps in the insulation where overheating can occur and when used in the self-cleaning mode it can cause nearby cabinets to overheat. This can pose a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: BSH Home Appliances has received ten reports of incidents including one which resulted in a fire that caused extensive property damage. No injuries have been reported.

Description: This recall involves Thermador® Brand built-in single ovens and combination models which have a conventional oven and a microwave. The model numbers of the single ovens are C271B, C301B, SEC271B and SEC301B. The model numbers of the combination models are SEM272B, SEM302B, SEMW272B and SEMW302B. The ovens have date codes between FD8403 and FD8701. The model number and date code can be found on the underside of the control panel.

Sold at: Appliance and specialty stores nationwide from November 2004 through May 2007 for between $2,400 and $3,900.

Manufactured in: United States

Remedy: Consumers should stop using the oven’s self-cleaning mode and contact BSH Home Appliances immediately to schedule an inspection and free repair, if necessary.

Consumer Contact: BSH Home Appliances at (800) 701-5230 between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m. ET Monday through Friday. For more information, visit the firm’s Web site at www.thermador.com

Ceramic Heaters Recalled By Lasko; Heaters Could Pose A Fire Hazard

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Lasko Ceramic Heaters

Units: About 1.2 million

Manufacturer: Lasko Products Inc., of West Chester, Pa.

Hazard: The heater’s cord can overheat where it enters the base of the unit, which could pose a fire hazard to consumers.

Incidents/Injuries: Lasko has received 28 reports of failed power cords, including six reports of minor property damage. No injuries have been reported.

Description: This recall involves Lasko ceramic heaters manufactured in 2005. Model numbers included in the recall are: 5132, 5345, 5362, 5364, 5420, 5532, 5534 and 5566. Model numbers are located on the bottom of the unit or at the rear of the base of the heaters.

Sold at: Major retailers, home centers and discount department stores nationwide from September 2005 through April 2006 for between $20 and $50.

Manufactured in: China

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the heaters and contact Lasko to receive a free replacement heater.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Lasko at (800) 984-3311 anytime, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.Laskoproducts.com