The size of toys remains relatively constant in most cases, making it easy for parents to tell if a given item would pose an ingestion hazard to their small children. But what about items that are specifically designed to expand when they make contact with water?
It’s this occurrence that led to the recall of items from the Cleveland, Ohio-based Dunecraft. Growing Skulls, Fabulous Flowers, Water Balz, and Despicable Me H20 Orbs are affected by the recall, with a total of around 95,000 units being recalled, with all but 600 available in the US (those 600 are being recalled from Canada).
These toys, which are around the size of a marble, can be swallowed by a child. However, they might then expand inside that kid’s digestive system, blocking the intestines and causing discomfort, dehydration, vomiting, and even leading to conditions that might be considered life threatening. A surgical operation would be necessary to correct the issue, which is exactly what happened in one case in Texas involving an eight month old girl.
Consumers should take these items, which were sold across the country at numerous retailers (see link above), away from their children immediately. A replacement item will be provided to all those who get in touch with Dunecraft.