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Neuroscience For Kids

Cadmium Used in Toys?
January 30, 2010
Updated: January 13, 2011 by Remi Alli

cd Cadmium (Cd) is one of the most dangerous, toxic pollutants known. This toxin can cause severe damage to the lungs, liver, kidneys, and nervous system. And it might be showing up in children's toys!

cd On January 11, 2010, US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Chairman Inez Tenenbaum issued a statement that warns against the use of cadmium in children's products. This statement comes after an investigation by The Associated Press found cadmium in many pieces of children's jewelry imported from China. It appears that jewelry manufacturers are now using cadmium instead of lead.

The CPSC also recently publicized the recall of children's necklaces sold at Walmart Stores because this jewelry had high levels of cadmium.

Cadmium can:

The CPSC hopes that manufacturers will voluntarily keep cadmium out of products, but will develop mandatory regulations if needed.

UPDATE: In late 2010, cadmium was found in children's drinking glasses.

References and more information:

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