July 8, 2004

Recall of Metal Toy Jewelry Sold in Vending Machines

Four toy jewelry importers today announced the voluntary recall of 150 million pieces of toy jewelry sold in vending machines across America. Only about half of the 150 million pieces of toy jewelry actually contains lead, but, because it is difficult to distinguish the lead jewelry from the non-lead jewelry, the industry decided to recall all of it. The four firms are A & A Global Industries, Inc., of Cockeysville, Md.; Brand Imports, LLC, of Scottsdale, Ariz.; Cardinal Distributing Co. Inc., of Baltimore, Md.; and L. M. Becker & Co., Inc., of Kimberly, Wis.

This toy jewelry recall involves various styles of rings, necklaces and bracelets. The rings are gold- or silver-colored with different designs and paint finishes with various shaped center stones. The necklaces have black cord or rope or gold- or silver-colored chains. The necklaces have pendants, crosses or various geometrical designs or shapes, and can include gemstones. The various styles of bracelets include charm bracelets, bracelets with medallion links, and bracelets with faux stones. All the jewelry was manufactured in India.

The toy jewelry was sold in vending machines located in malls, discount, department and grocery stores nationwide from January 2002 through June 2004 for between $0.25 and $0.75. The industry estimates that this toy jewelry is kept in homes for a short period of time, but parents should look for these items in their homes.

Consumers should throw away recalled jewelry. Consumers can contact the Toy Jewelry Recall Hotline for more information about this recall. Visit the Toy Jewelry Recall Hotline at (800) 441-4234 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firms’ Web site at http://www.toyjewelryrecall.com/