Target Corp. Agrees to Pay $600 000 Penalty

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Phthalates In Toys

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sourced by Barbara McPherson

The Target Corporation of Minneapolis Minnesota has agreed to pay a $600 000 civil penalty for the importation of children's products that contain lead in the excess of that allowed.  In agreeing to pay the civil penalty, the Target Corporation denies that it broke the law.  The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission(CPSC) brought the action forward on Target Corp.

"The penalty settlement, which has been provisionally accepted (pdf) by the Commission, resolves CPSC staff allegations that from May 2006 through August 2007, Target knowingly imported and sold various toys (Kool Toyz Products, Anima - Bamboo Collection Games, Happy Giddy Gardening Tools and Sunny Patch Chairs) with paint or other surface coatings that contained lead levels above legal limits. The federal lead paint ban for toys has been in place since 1978. CPSC staff alleged that Target failed to take adequate action to ensure that no toys or children’s products would bear lead-containing paint, thereby creating a risk of lead poisoning and adverse health effects to children."U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission(CPSC)

There is also a recall notice for toys sold bv Daiso California Llc of Burlingame California.  These children's products have too much lead and/or DEHP (phthalates).  Not many units were sold, but further information may be obtained from Daiso.

Lead may be found in many products that are imported from countries with differing standards for health and safety.  There is currently a health notice for the U.S. regarding the consumption of dried plum products that have been imported from Asia.  Many of the products contain lead in excess of allowable limits.  Plum products produced from domestically produced plums are still considered safe.

It is necessary to be vigilant regarding lead content in food, paints and children's products.  Lead is a toxic metal that can be ingested, absorbed through the skin and inhaled.  It is a powerful nerve poison and is especially poisonous to children.  Its effects are cumulative. 

Phthalates are chemicals that are used in the plastics industry.  They are used to soften vinyl and are found in many areas of the modern world, from shower curtains to cosmetics.  Concern has been growing over the use of the group of chemicals, linking their presence with a litany of health concerns. Phthalates also accumulate in the body.