Many parents are concerned today about the lead hazards in their child’s toys. Health authorities have been warning consumers in the recent years against buying toys that may contain lead. Certain products found to be positive of lead have also been recalled by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in a number of instances in the past.
Parents were warned again just this past holiday season that toys including the jewelry types may contain lead. But how can you really determine if a product has this hazardous element?
Lead is not visible to the naked eye and does not have any distinct smell. Take note, however, that toys manufactured in other countries and brought to the U.S. often contain lead. The same is true with antique toys or collectibles handed down from one generation to another. Toys can contain lead through the paint and plastic used in making them.
As a parent, it is vital to be aware of these lead hazards. Only a certified laboratory can perform a test on a toy. The do-it-yourself kits available today are also not that reliable in detecting the lead level.
A blood test, however, may be done to find out if your child has been exposed to lead and what appropriate treatment should be given.
Do understand that simply touching a toy or wearing a toy jewelry will not cause lead to get into your child’s bloodstream. It‘s when the item is put inside the mouth that can cause an adverse effect. Lead exposure can affect a child’s behavior and learning ability.
Photo via Mercola
Originally posted on February 11, 2012 @ 3:56 am
