Toy military figures sold at Dollar Stores and discount stores around the U.S. are being recalled today because they violate the federal standard for lead paint. About 2,100 units of these toys, which where imported by Jide Trading, Inc., of Commerce, Calif., are involved in this recall.
In children and fetuses, lead exposure can cause brain and nervous system damage, behavioral and learning problems, slowed growth, hearing problems, headaches, mental and physical retardation, and behavioral and other health problems. Lead is known to cause cancer and reproductive harm and, in adults, can damage the nervous system. Once poisoned by lead, no organ system is immune.
In 1978, a federal ban was put in place that prohibited toys and other children’s articles from having more than 0.06 percent lead—by weight—in paints or surface coatings. In 2007, over six million toys were recalled because of lead; the highest number ever due to product defects. As a result of the Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008, the regulatory limit for allowable lead was reduced to 0.009 percent on August 14, 2009.
The mini military toy set involved in this recall is packaged on a blister card and includes a male military figure about four inches in height with various accessories. This toy was sold in Dollar Stores and other discount stores from November 2008 to April 2009.
Consumers should immediately take the recalled toys away from children and contact Jide Trading for a full refund or replacement toy. For additional information, call Jide Trading toll free at (866) 544-7822 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.jidetrading.com.
