Mattel Recalling More Chinese-Made Toys

By NATASHA METZLER,
Associated Press Writer
8 minutes ago


Toy-making giant Mattel Inc. issued recalls Tuesday for millions of Chinese-made toys that contain magnets that can be swallowed by children or could have lead paint.

The recall includes 7.3 million play sets, including Polly Pocket dolls and Batman action figures, and 1.5 million die cast cars that contain lead paint.

The Polly Pocket and Batman recalls were announced on the company's Web site. The recall of lead-painted cars was announced at a mid-morning news conference by the Consumer Product Safety Commission in Washington.

Nancy A. Nord, acting CPSC chairman, said no injuries had been reported with any of the products involved in the recall.

"The scope of these recalls is intentionally large to prevent any injuries from occurring," she told the news conference.

It was the latest blow to the toy industry, which has had a string of recalled products from China, ranging from faulty tires to tainted toothpaste. With more than 80 percent of toys sold worldwide made in China, toy sellers are nervous that shoppers will shy away from their products.

The recall involving lead paint was Mattel's second in two weeks. Earlier this month, consumers were warned about 1.5 million Chinese-made toys that contain lead paint.

Among the toys recalled Tuesday are 253,000 Sarge brand cars, because the surface paint could contain lead levels in excess of federal standard. The 2 1/2-inch, 1-inch high car looks like a military jeep.

Also recalled were 345,000 Batman and "One Piece" action figures, 683,000 Barbie and Tanner play sets and 1 million Doggie Day Care play sets.

In full-page ads Tuesday in The New York Times and other newspapers, Mattel said it was "one of the most trusted names with parents" and was "working extremely hard to address your concerns and continue creating safe, entertaining toys for you and your children."

Mattel recalling more Chinese-made toys - Yahoo! News