In a critical move to ensure child safety, Hungry Jack’s has issued an urgent recall for a Garfield toy distributed in their children’s meals. The recall follows serious concerns that the toy, which contains button batteries, poses significant choking hazards. Nicole Rich, the Director of Consumer Affairs Victoria, emphasized the gravity of the situation with a stark warning.
“The toy does not comply with the mandatory information standard for products containing button batteries and lacks the required warnings about the dangers associated with these batteries,” Rich stated. This oversight, she explained, could lead to severe injuries or even fatal consequences if the batteries are ingested.
Hungry Jack: The Hidden Danger of Button Batteries
The recalled toy, part of a promotional campaign for The Garfield Movie, failed to meet Australian consumer law standards concerning button battery safety. These small, coin-sized batteries can be particularly hazardous if accessed by young children.
They are capable of causing corrosive injuries as they can burn through the esophagus in just two hours after ingestion, leading to internal burns, severe bleeding, or death.
“This incident underlines the critical nature of stringent safety standards for children’s toys, especially those containing button batteries,” Rich added in her public warning. “There is a risk of choking or serious injury if young children gain access to these batteries.”
Action Steps for Consumers
Hungry Jack’s has responded swiftly to the crisis by urging parents and guardians to exercise caution and remove the hazardous toys from children’s reach immediately. The fast-food chain has also set up a protocol for the return of the toys.
Between May 20 and May 30, customers were given these toys at various Hungry Jack locations, and they can now return them to any restaurant for a safe, battery-free replacement or proper disposal.
“For those who may still have the toy, please ensure it is disposed of safely or returned to any Hungry Jack’s outlet,” advised a statement on Hungry Jack’s website. Additionally, for further assistance or information on the recall, customers can contact Hungry Jack’s customer service directly.
Monitoring and Continuing Investigation
As Consumer Affairs Victoria continues to investigate this safety lapse, they remain a resource for anyone uncertain about product safety. The agency encourages anyone with doubts or concerns to reach out for guidance and support.
For parents or caregivers who fear a child may have ingested or inserted a button battery, immediate action is crucial. Contacting the Poisons Information Centre for urgent advice can be life-saving. This recall serves as a reminder of the importance of rigorous safety standards and the vigilance needed to protect our youngest and most vulnerable from hidden dangers in everyday items.
