Recalls: Pens, fake teeth, supplements
The following recalls have been announced:
• About 310,000 Flower Writers, Christmas Writers, Easter Writers and Spooky Writers seasonal writing pens, manufactured in China and distributed by Michaels Stores, Inc. The pens are recalled because their surface coating has high levels of lead, which is toxic if ingested by children. No injuries have been reported. The pens were sold at Michaels stores around the country between August 2007 and March 2008. Details by phone at 800-638-2772; by Web at http://www.michaels.com or http://www.cpsc.gov.
• About 26,000 fake "hillbilly" teeth, manufactured in China and imported by Funtastic, because the gray surface paint contains high levels of lead, which is toxic if ingested by children. No injuries have been reported. The fake teeth were sold at grocery, drug, convenience and mass retail stores around the country between March 2005 and March 2008. Details: by phone at 800-434-5207; by Web at http://www.funtastictoy.com or http://www.cpsc.gov.
• Herbal Science International Inc. is recalling twelve dietary supplements for containing either ephedra, aristolochic acid or human placenta. All the supplements are packaged in white bottles of 100 capsules each.
The following products are recalled for containing ephedra, which is linked with heart attacks and strokes: Wu Yao Shun Qi San, Qing Bi Tang (Nasal Cleanser), Zhong Fong Huo Luo Wan (Stroke Revito Formula), Xiao Qing Long Tang (Little Green Dragon), Ding Chuan Tang, Xiao Xu Ming Tang, Feng Shi Zhi Tong Wan (Joint Relief), Guo Min Bi Yan Wan and Fang Feng Tong Sheng San.
Herbal Science International's Tou Tong San (Headache Formula) and Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang (Du Huo Joint Relief) are also recalled for containing aristolochic acid, which is a carcinogen and toxic to the kidneys. The company is also recalling Seng Jong Tzu Tong Tan, because it contains human placenta, which may transmit disease.
No illnesses have been reported. The recalled supplements were sold online, and around the country in herbal stores and by acupuncturists. For more information call 626-333-9998.