Amazon recently recalled some butterfly rings for women and girls sold on its marketplace, after British authorities detected the presence of dangerous levels of cadmium, a heavy metal classified as a carcinogen.
The recalled rings
The recall concerns specific Dishowme brand rings, packaged in clear plastic bags and originating from China.
These products have been removed from the Amazon marketplace in the UK and the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has urged anyone who owns them not to use them at all.
However, it is not clear whether these rings were also sold in other countries, including Italy. At the moment there are no official reports from the Italian authorities, but prudence suggests checking any orders placed on Amazon and immediately stopping use if they are the ones reported.
Because cadmium is dangerous
Cadmium is a chemical element that is very dangerous for human health. Exposure may occur through ingestion, inhalation or prolonged skin contact. In children, even small amounts can build up in the body and cause damage to the kidneys, bones and internal organs, as well as an increased risk of developing tumors. For this reason, products containing cadmium beyond the limits permitted by law are considered a serious health risk and subject to immediate withdrawal from the market.
The recall once again highlights the importance of paying attention to products purchased online, especially when intended for children or adolescents. Amazon said it constantly monitors products sold on its platform and removes those that don’t meet safety standards, but as this case shows, flaws are always possible.
