Reports of Cadmium in Children’s Metal Jewelry and Possibly Other Products Raises NBVA Member Questions

Earlier this week, the Associated Press (AP) published a well publicized investigative report on the presence of cadmium, a toxic and carcinogenic heavy metal, in children's metal jewelry and possibly other products.  This report generated much buzz in the consumer product safety arena and multiple questions from the NBVA membership.  While the metal charms and pendants discussed in the report were not bulk vended items, it is critical that all NBVA members educate themselves on this issue and attempt to keep cadmium out of their bulk vended jewelry and other items.  Please find below important information concerning the use of cadmium in children’s jewelry and other products.

According to the AP report, the heavy metal cadmium is being used by some manufacturers, especially in China, as a substitute for lead in children’s metal jewelry.  As you are well aware, the use of lead paint and lead substrate in children’s products are strictly limited by federal regulations.  The report found that many jewelry items, purchased at regional and national retailers, contained upward of 80-90% percent cadmium by weight.  The testing also showed that some items easily shed the heavy metal, raising additional concerns about the levels of exposure to children.

Currently, the use of cadmium and several other heavy metals in surface coatings, such as paint, applied to toys is strictly limited by regulation.  However, this ban does not include jewelry.  And, while the Federal Hazardous Substances Act generally bans any “hazardous substance” intended for children, there is no specific federal standard limiting cadmium in the substrate of any product or in the surface coating of products other than toys.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

• The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) immediately opened an investigation into the use of cadmium in children’s jewelry and other products and will take “appropriate action as quickly as possible.”  To date, the CPSC has never recalled an item because of the presence of cadmium and there are no known enforcement actions over the use of cadmium.  However, that may change in the near future.

• lMajor retailers are planning to adopt new requirements limiting cadmium in children’s products.

• Several U.S. Senators and Representatives have announced their intention to introduce legislation regulating cadmium in children’s products, and state legislators are expected to do the same at the state level.

Therefore, based on these recent developments, it is strongly suggested that all NBVA members begin looking at this issue and attempt to keep cadmium out of all bulk vended jewelry, children’s products and other items.

The Association will remain diligent in monitoring this issue, the activities of all affected parties and to advise the NBVA and its members accordingly.  As always, the NBVA reminds its members that they must ensure that their products meet all applicable U.S. product safety standards.