In response to safety concerns, Zuru, the manufacturer of Baby Shark bath toys, has announced a voluntary recall of approximately 7.5 million units.
The decision comes after the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) raised alarms about the risk of injury posed by the toys.
The recall affects both the full-size Baby Shark Bath Toys and the Mini Baby Shark Bath Toys, specifically those with hard plastic top fins.
Risk of Injury Prompts Recall of Baby Shark Bath Toys
The CPSC, in collaboration with Zuru, initiated the recall after identifying potential hazards associated with the shark toys.
According to Bath Shark, the top fins on the recalled products present a risk of impalement, lacerations, and punctures.
The agency highlighted that Zuru had received reports of 12 children falling or sitting onto the full-size Baby Shark bath toys, resulting in injuries.
Out of the reported incidents, nine required stitches or medical attention. No injuries have been reported in relation to the Mini Baby Shark bath toys.
The voluntary recall affects two versions of the popular Baby Shark bath toys: the full-size Baby Shark and the Mini Baby Shark.
As reported by ABC, consumers who own the recalled toys are advised to immediately stop using them and contact Zuru to arrange a full refund.
Zuru has provided instructions on their website for consumers to register and initiate the recall process.
It is important to note that the silicone top-fin version of the full-size Baby Shark bath toy, introduced in March, is not included in the recall.
Zuru has clarified that if the top fin of the shark toy feels softer to the touch and there is a visible line separating the silicone and plastic portions, then it is not subject to the recall.
Distribution and Sales Channels
The Baby Shark bath toys were widely distributed and available for purchase across various retail outlets.
The affected toys were sold nationwide at popular stores, including Meijer, Dollar General Corp.,HEB Grocery Company, Walgreens, Family Dollar Services, Walmart, CVS Pharmacy, Target, Ross, and TJX Companies.
Additionally, online platforms such as Target.com, Walmart.com, and Amazon.com also offered the recalled products. Retail prices for the Baby Shark bath toys ranged from $6 to $20.
NPR reported that the recall encompasses full-size Baby Shark bath toys, identifiable by model number 25282 and date codes spanning from May 1, 2019, to June 19, 2022 (formatted as "DG" followed by "YYYY/MM/DD").
Meanwhile, the mini Baby Shark toys, available individually, in packs of two or three, and as part of the Baby Shark Music Water Park playset, are also subject to recall.
These mini toys can be identified by model numbers 25291, 7163, 7166, and 7175, with date codes ranging from June 15, 2020, to May 25, 2023.
Safety Precautions and Consumer Advice
The CPSC advises consumers who possess the recalled toys to discontinue their use immediately.
To ensure proper identification, it is recommended to mark the toys with a permanent marker as "recalled." Consumers are encouraged to reach out to Zuru to initiate the refund process.
As the safety of children is paramount, parents and caregivers should be vigilant in checking their children's toys for any potential hazards and regularly monitor the CPSC website for product recalls and safety alerts.
Zuru's voluntary recall of 7.5 million Baby Shark bath toys underscores the company's commitment to child safety.
With the risk of impalement, lacerations, and punctures associated with the hard plastic top fins, the recall serves as a precautionary measure to protect children from potential injuries.
Consumers who have purchased the affected toys are urged to take immediate action and contact Zuru for a full refund.
By prioritizing the well-being of young consumers, Zuru aims to maintain its reputation as a responsible manufacturer, ensuring that children can enjoy their toys without compromising their safety.
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