Lead in Toys and Jewelry for Children – Beware!!!

Guard your child against the silent killer – lead in toys! Be cautious of bargain deals on toys like the Squeezie duck, Barbie, or Dora Jewelry bought from roadside shops. While branded toys like Funskool, Fisher Price, Lego, Barbie, and Hotwheels are safe, ‘Made in China’ toys flood the market with attractive colors and cheap prices. Even those toys sold by children at traffic signals, though seemingly helpful, can endanger your kids’ health. Remember, it’s not worth the risk. Also, beware of purchasing earbuds from roadside shops or signals, as they may contain recycled cotton from hospitals. Ensure your child’s safety by avoiding lead-contaminated toys and products.

Lead in Toys- Is that True??

In a groundbreaking study conducted by NGO Toxic Links in 2006, the levels of lead and cadmium in PVC and non-PVC toys purchased from major cities in India (Mumbai, Chennai, and New Delhi) were examined. The results were nothing short of alarming, especially concerning “lead in toys.” The study shed light on the potential dangers posed by these toys, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness and action to protect children’s health.

A total of 88 samples contained Lead and Cadmium in varying concentrations.

It is widely accepted that no level of lead or cadmium in blood shall be considered as safe for children and hence every effort should be made to ensure that their environment remains free of any threat to exposure from any toxic metal.
Even after the publication of this study, there was no reaction from the government in curbing the import of these toys.

What are in these Jewelry?

Barbie and Hannah Montana, beloved by millions of children, have popularized their accessories, including jewelry. However, these jewelry items, coated with vibrant colors to attract kids, pose a hidden danger due to the presence of organo-metallic compounds. When children chew on bracelets or necklaces, the lead in these items can enter their bloodstream.

In 2010, Toxic Links conducted a study on artificial jewelry, specifically focusing on the presence of lead. They collected 54 samples, including bangles, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and rings, from roadside shops. The findings regarding lead in toys were alarming:

1. All 54 children’s jewelry samples contained varying levels of lead.
2. Rings showed the highest lead concentration among the tested samples.
3. Decorative colored samples, especially those with multiple colors, exhibited higher lead levels.
4. Pink was the most common color found, indicating potentially high lead content.
5. Even colorless jewelry samples showed significant lead content, indicating the presence of lead within the jewelry items themselves.

These findings highlight the severity of the issue and the potential risks associated with lead in children’s jewelry. While the US and Europe have stringent laws on lead usage, the lack of standards in India’s vast toy and junk jewelry market puts the health of millions of children at stake.

Some facts about Lead in toys

Lead is extremely poisonous to children and pregnant woman.

In children it may cause

1. Anemia.

2. Irritability.

3. Weight Loss.

4. Vomiting.

5. Sluggishness and Fatigue.

6. Constipation.

7. Learning Difficulties.

8. Slowed Growth.

9. If there is chronic lead exposure then it may slowly lead to brain damage, kidney shutdown and ultimately death.

To safeguard against lead exposure in toys, follow these preventive measures:

1. Prioritize purchasing branded toys and fashion jewelry known for their safety standards and quality control.
2. Take a close look at product information and packaging to determine if lead is present in the painting materials used.
3. Spread awareness among fellow parents and friends about the risks of lead in toys to ensure their children’s safety. Together, we can make informed choices and protect our kids from potential harm.

Let’s provide a Safe childhood ………..

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