China has suspended exports of a children's bead toy after 4.2
million of the picture sets were recalled in the US because they
contain a toxic drug, China's quality control watchdog said
Friday.
The US Consumer Product Safety Commission on Thursday recalled
the Chinese-made Aqua Dots sets as the beads contain an adhesive
solvent called "1,4 butylene glycol" that simulates the drug gamma
hydroxy if swallowed.
Five children were reported to have fallen ill after swallowing
the beads in the United States and in Australia, where the toy is
sold under the name Bindeez.
The General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection,
and Quarantine (AQSIQ) said it has sealed the bead toys at the
producer, without revealing producer's name.
The AQSIQ added it has ordered quality control agencies to
launch inspections and will release investigation results
promptly.
(Xinhua News Agency November 10, 2007)