April 29, 2008
Nintendo is recalling about 71,000 character-themed lapel pins because they contain high levels of lead. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.
The recalled lapel pins have images depicting 12 video game characters. The lapel pins vary in size, ranging from 1- to 2- inches in height. The characters Diddy Kong, Donkey Kong, Kirby, Mario, Mario Kart, Pikachu, Princess Peach, Samus, Starfox, Waluigi and Wario were sold individually. Mario, Princess Peach and Samus were also sold as a set.
The pins were sold at Nintendo stores in Redmond, Washington and New York, NY between April 2004 and November 2007 for between $1.50 and $4. The recalled lapel pins were also distributed to employees at electronics and game stores nationwide from April 2004 through November 2007. They were made in China.
Consumers should immediately stop wearing the lapel pins and contact Nintendo to receive a free replacement lapel pin.
For more information, consumers can contact Nintendo at (800) 431-0971 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's Web site www.nintendo.com.
The recall is being conducted in cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC).
