Los Angeles company recalls lead-laced masks, pendants

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Team Work Trading of Los Angeles is recalling about 1,400 children’s animal masks and pendants because they contain high levels of lead, which is toxic to young children.

The Consumer Product Safety Commission advised consumers to immediately stop using the recalled items and contact Team Work Trading for a refund or exchange.

The recall involves a children’s animal mask and four styles of metal pendants with anime symbols.

The mask resembles the face of a cat. The pendants are a dog tag with a fire symbol, in a package labeled ‘Bleach’; a knife and lion symbol, labeled ‘Final Fantasy’; a key-shaped topped with a Mickey Mouse symbol, labeled ‘Kingdom of Hearts’ and a burning sun symbol, labeled ‘Naruto.’ The pendants were sold with silver-colored chains.

The items were manufactured in China and sold at gift shops and modeling stores nationwide from November 2008 through March 2009 for between $4 and $8.

Lead is considered particularly dangerous for children, whose nervous systems are more sensitive to its effects. It can cause brain damage and learning disabilities.

A Team Work Trading spokesman said that no injuries had been reported.

For additional information, consumers can contact Team Work Trading at (213) 680-4489 or visit http://www.cpsc.gov.

-- Sherine El Madany