Bindeez Recall - Questions and Answers

Why is there a recall?

Character Options is voluntarily recalling the product due to concerns following a number of reported cases of children falling ill in Australia and the USA after reportedly ingesting Bindeez beads. Whilst there have been no cases of confirmed illness in the UK and Eire in an effort to avoid any potential risk to children, Character has decided as a safety measure to voluntarily recall all Bindeez products.

Is there any danger to my child if Bindeez beads are used as instructed?

Used as instructed Bindeez are safe. 

Some batches of the beads in the product shipped do not match the laboratory tested and approved formula. As a result, whilst not intended to be eaten, if ingested in large quantities they may cause illness.

All Bindeez products are labelled 4 years and we strongly advise the product is not given to any children under that age.

What aspect of Bindeez should I be concerned about?

The potential safety concern is only with the beads supplied in Bindeez packs. All other elements of the product are totally safe.

What should I do if I suspect my child has swallowed some of the beads?

If you suspect your child has swallowed the beads we suggest you seek medical attention immediately for your child even if the child is not showing any signs of illness.

Which toys have been recalled?

All toys branded as Bindeez. Please refer to the product information sheet here (PDF Download Required)

Are any other Character Options toys affected by the recall?

No – only Bindeez toys are affected by this recall.

What should be done with the toys that have been recalled?

As precaution, Character Options Ltd have advised that the toys are immediately removed out of the reach of children. The only danger posed to children is through the ingestion of Bindeez beads. These beads should be disposed of safely and you should contact the Character Options customer care line to arrange for replacement beads to be sent to you.

What is the best way to dispose of the old beads?

Wrap them in a bag and put them in your rubbish bin.

How will the replacement beads differ from the existing beads?

As well as conforming to the original approved formula, the new beads will have an additional safety feature. They will be covered with Bitrex which is a safe solution which on contact with the mouth leaves an extremely bitter taste that is designed to dissuade children from placing the product in their mouth. (This is very similar to the product used to discourage nail biting).  

When will Bindeez products be back on sale?

We are waiting for new stock of safe beads and hope to have some Bindeez products back on sale shortly.

When will the replacement beads I have ordered be available?

We anticipate that we will be able to provide replacement beads towards the end of January 2008.