Wal-Mart Charm Key Chains Recalled Because of Lead

Wal-Mart is recalling another seven charm key chains because they contain excessive amounts of lead that threatens the health of children.

In high doses, lead can kill. More commonly, exposure at even low levels can permanently damage the brain. In addition to loss of IQ, studies have linked lead exposure to a tendency toward violent and criminal behavior.

Wal-Mart is recalling about 39,000 "Hip Charm" key chains on top of the 12,000 recalled in April. The first recall was prompted by high blood levels detected in a child who had put one of the key chains in her mouth.

Imported from China by FGX International Inc., of Smithfield, R.I., the recalled key chains have several charms including a button, clover, leaf and heart. The charms hang from a silver-colored chain. The words "Hip charm" and the following UPC numbers are printed on the products' packaging: 03156811032, 03156811029, 03156811019, 03156811016, 03156811018, 03156811028, and 03156811030.

Wal-Mart sold the lead-laced key chains from April 2005 until June 2008 for as little as 50 cents and as much as $6.

The risk from lead exposure is great enough that the Consumer Product Safety Commission warns parents not to let their children handle the key chains. Wal-Mart is offering a full refund.

For more information. call Wal-Mart at (800) 925-6278 between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the recall section of the Wal-Mart Website.