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Keep Your Kids Safe

Posted By mike On June 4, 2010 @ 9:07 am In News, Politics, Connect the Dots | 1 Comment

If you think you are purchasing materials that were likely produced by globalized capitalism to keep the price down, remember that part of the globalized capitalism model is to manufacture in countries that have very weak regulatory functions. The end result is that not only are toxic waste materials dumped into the environment in poorly regulated countries, the toxic materials are also simply tossed into the manufacturing process.

The people who clamor for the free market and decry all regulation should consider whether they want their children and grandchildren exposed to cadmium.

Return These Glasses to McDonalds

[1] clipped from [2] www.chicagobreakingnews.com

McDonald’s recalling tainted ‘Shrek’ drinking glasses
WASHINGTON — McDonald’s will recall about 12 million “Shrek” drinking glasses because federal regulators found they contain the toxic metal cadmium, which poses health risks.
The glasses have been sold for $2 apiece at McDonald’s restaurants across the country as a promotional tie-in with the movie. Purchasers will be advised to keep them away from children and to return them to McDonald’s for a refund.
The recall, which is scheduled to be officially announced Friday by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, was set in motion by an anonymous tip last week to U.S. Rep. Jackie Speier, D-Calif. Speier alerted the consumer commission, which tested the glasses on an accelerated basis, confirming the presence of cadmium.In the past, the safety commission has warned manufacturers to avoid cadmium in children’s products. Speier said the episode points to the need for stronger safety measures. Speier has introduced legislation banning cadmium and other toxic metals from children’s jewelry.

The federal government describes cadmium as “an extremely toxic metal” and says long-term exposure to lower levels of cadmium in air, food or water leads to a buildup of the metal in the kidneys and possible kidney disease. It also can cause lung damage and fragile bones.

The presence of cadmium in consumer products has drawn increasing scrutiny in recent months. Earlier this year, Wal-Mart Stores Inc. announced it was removing certain jewelry items, including necklaces and bracelets from a Miley Cyrus line, from its stores after news media reports indicated that they contained cadmium.

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