Children’s jewelry imported from China has become the spotlight in the United States, after investigation by the Associated Press found the toxic metal content of cadmium. Cadmium is dangerous carcinogens that can affect the kidneys and brain development of children. The effect was worse than the black tin ever found on poisoned toy scandal in 2007.
Associated Press conducted laboratory tests on 103 pieces of jewelry kids store in New York, Ohio, Texas and California. Test showed 12% of the pieces contain at least 10% cadmium by weight. Bros. “Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer” containing 91% cadmium. Toys and jewelry makers seem to use cadmium China because the shiny material, easily processed, and cheaper than the tin.
In the U.S. there are strict limits on lead content of children’s products, but there are no limit cadmium levels in jewelry. The Consumer Product Safety Commission said the U.S. would begin an investigation on children’s jewelry imported from China.
Retail giant Wal-Mart and Claire’s accessories store that sells jewelry states will voluntarily pull the product from sale.
Posted on January 23, 2010