Ceres Recalls

I'm in the process of updating our toy pages, to provide links on where to find out information both in NZ (and the United States) about Toy Recalls.

Imagine my surprise, when I came across this... Ceres Enterprises Sunflower Seeds.
If you are a regular organics buyer, it would pay to check this recall, as it does affect some Venerdi breads, Organic Bakeworks bread, cookies and gluten-free breadcrumbs, and Purebread muesli. Follow the link and check the products and dates affected.

This recall was listed in February but if you are like me, you may freeze bread!

Tip: To receive future recalls you can subscribe to Consumer by RSS.

"magic beads" toy withdrawn...

As yet another toxic toy is discovered - Bindeez beads sets (http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/1/story.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10474475). This serves as another huge warning to shoppers to be very cautious about composition of the toys they are buying for children - particularly with Christmas just around the corner.

For plenty of great choices in wooden toys and organic cotton toys, check out our where to shop directory.

Latest in a series of "Made in China" product recalls

Fisher Price Character toys - see Consumer 3rd August
Toothpaste - see Consumer 15 June
Thomas The Tank Engine - see Consumer 14 June

So how does the average parent know that wooden toys which are labelled "non-toxic", have been subjected to regular testing by the importer and are really non-toxic (and lead free?)

You don't according to Green Party spokeswoman, Sue Kedgely:
"Our consumer protection scheme is reactive, seemingly only responding when a scandal breaks overseas. It appears to be based on the notion all consumer products sold in New Zealand are safe and true to label – obviously naive, in the wake of recent controversy." (Stuff.co.nz)

What are the alternatives?
The only safe option seems to be to stick to:
- toys made in NZ
- wooden toys with eco-friendly non-toxic finishes

Alternatively, you can buy lead paint testing kits from paint stores ... but that seems a bit extreme.

Read about how high lead levels can affect young children.

Postscript: Some toys in NZ carry the CE mark. The CE mark is a declaration on manufactured products sold in the European Union (EU) that the item meets all the requirements of relevant EU directives. (http://www.marketnewzealand.com/MNZ/Services/14424.aspx)

Thomas Tank Engine Recall

After my attempt to get more light-hearted ... here's a recall to take note of and spread the word - Lead paint warning - Thomas & Friends Recall.

For NZ readers, check out the information on this recall from Consumer.

I read about this on a Blog I recently discovered - Eco Child's Play. They have some interesting information including an article on play structures and tanalised timber which I will be following up on soon (from a NZ perspective).