Demands for fidget spinners to be recalled over allegations of toxic lead contamination

Major retailer, Target Corporation, has recalled two of their popular fidget-spinners over reports that they contain excessive levels of toxic lead.

The heavy metal is poisonous and can cause symptoms through exposure like stomach pains, headaches, constipation, irritability, memory problems, and tingling in the hands and feet

The brain is particularly sensitive to lead exposure, and in serious cases, exposure can cause seizures, coma and even death. Survivors of lead poisoning may become anaemic and infertile

Given that the fidget spinner target market is generally children, the toxic lead exposure can cause even more lasting complications for a child’s underdeveloped body. Children exposed to lead may suffer from developmental problems, cognitive limitations and even death.

A not-for-profit organisation produced a report that suggested Fidget Wild Premium spinners contained leads levels from 520 parts per million (ppm) to 33,000 ppm. The legal limit is 100 ppm. The shocking results were reportedly found in both the brass and metal versions of the toy. The centre bearing contained the highest amount of lead and lead toxicity levels of the ‘arms’ reportedly exceeded legal limits.

While massively popular with children, makers and sellers of the fidget spinners in question have made seemingly wild and questionable suggestions that the spinners aren’t classified as toys for children. They say the spinners are “general use products” and not for use by children under 14.

Target says the two fidget spinners cited are clearly marked on the package as “appropriate for customers ages 14 and older“. They therefore reject suggestions that the toys were marketed to its main users: children. Target added:

“As a result, the fidget spinners identified are not regulated as toys or children’s products and are not required to meet children’s product standards.”

Kara Cook-Shulz – toxics director of PIRG’s Education Fund – responded to Target’s statement:

“…saying fidget spinners aren’t toys defies common sense, as millions of parents whose kids play with spinners can tell you.”

Companies owe their consumers a duty to provide products that are safe for use. Making and distributing products heavily laden with toxic lead can be a clear violation of consumer rights.

Companies cannot simply ignore the users they’re potentially harming with disclaimers like ‘suitable for customers over 14’. In reality, an overwhelming number of children are playing with these fidget spinners, and companies like Target telling themselves that it isn’t made for them doesn’t protect the children in the slightest.

Target has maintained that the fidget spinners didn’t break any guidelines in terms of category, but has nevertheless pulled the two spinners off their shelves.