Potentially deadly Novelty Pops lollipop recalled from IGA stores across Australia over fears they could cause choking, severe internal burns, or even death in young children
- Lollipops were sold in independent stores nationwide
- Free toys are powered by dangerous button batteries
A novelty lollipop has been recalled over fears it could cause choking, severe internal burns, or death in young children.
Australian International Traders Pty Ltd’s ‘Novelty Pops’ were sold nationally in small independent supermarkets, such as IGAs, from March 21 to May 10 this year.
The lollipops sold with a spinning top toy included are subject to the recall.
Product Safety Australia (PSA) said the confectionary items did not comply with mandatory safety standards for products containing button batteries.
A novelty lollipop (pictured) has been recalled over fears it could cause choking, severe internal burns, or death in young children
Australian International Traders Pty Ltd’s ‘Novelty Pops’ are sold nationally in small independent supermarkets, such as IGAs, from March 21 to May 10 this year
Button batteries are used in many household products, including remote controls, watches and cameras.
If swallowed, button batteries can become stuck in a child’s throat where the saliva can trigger an electrical current, causing a chemical reaction that can cause severe burns.
Serious injury can occur within two hours while the damage to the child’s oesophagus and internal organs can be fatal.
‘The battery compartment is not adequately secured so button batteries may become accessible,’ PSA said.
The lollipops also did not have the necessary warning symbols and information on the packaging.
The lollipops sold with a spinning top toy included (seen here) are subject to the recall
The battery compartment on the spinning top toy (pictured) is not properly secured, allowing children to access the button battery and potentially swallow it with lethal consequences
‘There is a risk of choking, severe internal burn injuries or death to young children if they gain access to the button batteries and swallow or insert them,’ PSA said.
‘Consumers may be unaware that the product contains a button battery.’
Every month one child is seriously injured after swallowing or inserting a button battery, some of whom sustain lifelong injuries.
‘Consumers should immediately stop using the toys and dispose of them,’ PSA said.
‘(They) should contact Australian International Traders to arrange for a refund of the product.’
The lollipops were sold at small independent supermarkets, retail shops and milk bars, including IGAs, Campbells Cash & Carry, Sweetcraft, The Lolly Bug shop and The Professors Shop.
