On June 19, 2008, Wal-Mart Stores Inc. recalled about 39,000 “Hip Charm” Key Chains, expanding an April 2008 recall, due to a lead poisoning hazard. Wal-Mart previously recalled 12,000 key chains, also because of high lead levels.

While no injuries have been reported, the Illinois Attorney General reported in April 2008 that the previously recalled key chain was found in the home of a 9-month-hold child who was observed mouthing the key chain, and was later found to have high blood levels of lead.

The recalled Wal-Mart key chains have button, clover, leaf and heart charms that hang from a silver-colored chain. Printed on the product’s packaging are the words “Hip charm” and the following UPC numbers:

• 03156811032,
• 03156811029,
• 03156811019,
• 03156811016,
• 03156811018,
• 03156811028, and
• 03156811030.

Recalled “Hip Charm” Key Chains were sold at Wal-Mart stores nationwide from April 2005 through June 2080 for between $.50 and $6. Consumers who own a recalled key chain should not allow children to handle it, and should return it to any Wal-Mart store for a refund.

For more information, customers may contact Wal-Mart at 800-925-6278, or visit the company’s website.

Source: “Wal-Mart recalls additional charm key chains due to risk of lead exposure,” US Consumer Product Safety Commission Release #08-307, June 19, 2008.