Alabama Product Injury Lawyer Blog

Yes, holiday times are here. Everyone rushing around buying gifts, going to parties, hanging out with friends and family. Its a time you want to sit back and sort of breath a little. Alas, my work schedule does not allow me. Hope all of you are enjoying this crazy, hectic and in some many ways beautiful time of year. So for the Recalls of the Week, here we go:

1. All Roman Shades : This one is hot off the presses today. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced today a voluntary recall of ALL Roman shades and roll-up blinds...yes that is correct, ALL....to prevent strangulation issues to young children. Over the past several months, certain specific shades have been recalled for this reason, but this time, it is across the board with no exceptions. It is reported that this recall involves millions of Roman and roll-up shades. Since 2006, the CPSC has received reports of 5 deaths and 16 near strangulation with Roman Shades and 3 deaths since 2001 for roll-up blinds. If you have these shades in your home, you need to contact the Window Covering Safety Council (WCSC) at www.windowcoverings.org or by calling 800-506-4636 and you will be sent a free repair kit. It is an issue with the cords used with these blinds. For more information regarding this recall and for instructions on what to do until you receive the repair kit, see here.

2. Sylvania Portable Nightlights: About 26,000 LED Rocketship PalPODzzz Portable Nightlights manufactured by Sylvania are being recalled due to the bottom plastic cover on the recharging base can break, which can expose internal electrical parts posing risk of shock to consumers. The recall involved model number 72174. The nightlight is shaped like a rocket and sits on a plastic base that plugs into the wall. The nightlights were sold at Home Depot, Stop and Shop and at other retailers and online at Amazon.com and other websites. You should immediately stop using the light and contact Sylvania for a free replacement and a $5 coupon to by other Sylvania products. For more information, see here.

3. Evenflo ExerSaucer 1-2-3 Tea for Me Activity Learning Centers: This recall involves activity learning centers for young children. About 66,000 of these have been sold in the U.S. at Toys "R" Us and other juvenile product stores between December 2008 and March 2009. There is a cake toy that is part of the Learning Center and the candle flame attached at the top can detach and create a choking hazard for small children. The two-tier cake is light blue, dark pink and yellow. Models included in the recall are 6161834 and 6161920. The model numbers are on a label located on the underside of the base of the product. You should immediately remove the cake toy from the product and contact Evenflo for a free replacement. For more information, see here.

4. Amby Baby Motion Beds: These "beds", which essentially are a steel frame and a fabric hammock which is connected to the frame by a large spring and crossbar, are meant to lay infants down to sleep. However, the side-to-side shifting of the hammock can cause an infant to roll and became entrapped in the fabric, creating a potential for suffocation. The manufacturer, Amby Baby, is aware of 2 suffocation deaths in the hammock. There is only one model of the hammock. It was sold by online retailers, including Ambybaby.com between 2003 and October 2009. If you have one of these hammocks, stop using it immediately and contact Amby Baby for a free repair kit. In the meantime, find another place for your child to sleep. For more information, see here.

That's all for this week. Please, with the holidays and all the rushing around, remember this is all about family and spending time with the ones you love and care about. As always, be careful out there.

Posted by Craig P. Niedenthal | Permalink | Email This Post | Comments (0)

Posted In: Consumer Products , Recalls , Recalls of the Week

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Time boys and girls for the update on Recalls of the Week. These are some of the most significant recalls which have occurred over the past week. You are welcome to contact me by calling or using the "contact" form here if you have any thoughts or questions on any of these recalls.

1. Maclaren Strollers: This is the big one for the week and the one that has been all over the news. Approximately one million strollers distributed in the U.S. by Maclaren are being recalled because the stroller's hinge mechanism can cause fingertip amputation and laceration to the child when the consumer is opening the stroller. Maclaren has received 15 reports of children putting their fingers in the hinge mechanism which has resulted in 12...yes 12 fingertip amputation of small children. Not much of a shock, these strollers were made in China. They have been sold at Babies "R" Us, Target and other retailers between 1999 and November 2009 (yup, 10 years this unsafe product has been on the market). The recall involves all "umbrella" strollers, single and double, with the name "Maclaren" on the stroller. If you have one of these strollers, stop using it immediately and contact Maclaren at 1-877-688-2326 to receive a free repair kit. For more information and photos of the type of strollers involved, see here. Consumer Reports has a good suggestion for anyone using any type of stroller with children. Make sure to keep your child far away while you are folding and unfolding the stroller and make sure it is fully opened and engaged before putting your child in the stroller (and buckled up too).

2. Samsung Over-The-Range Microwave Ovens: Approximately 43,000 Samsung Over-the-Range Microwave Ovens are being recalled due to an installation bolt potentially contacting an electrical component inside the microwave and if the oven is plugged into an ungrounded outlet, it could cause a shock. This involves the 1000 watt microwave ovens. For the model and serial numbers involved see here. These microwaves were sold nationwide between January 2009 and July 2009. If you have one of these microwaves, unplug it immediately and contact Samsung at 888-402-6974 to schedule a free repair.

3. Adventure Playsets Wooden Playset: These playsets are being recalled because the plastic coated lumber that is on the "monkey bar" can weaken over time as a result of rotting and lead to a fall hazard. Adventure Playsets, which have been sold at Walmart, Toys "R" Us, Academy Sports, Menards and Mill stores as well as on line, has received over 1400 reports of rotting ladders and there have been 16 injuries reported. You should immediately stop your children from using the Playset and call Adventure Playsets at 877-840-9068 to obtain ad replacement kit. For a further description of the model sets involved in this recall, see here.

That's all that is going on presently. Again, if you have any questions about these recalls, or any other recalls, you can contact me toll free at 1-866-977-4529 or through the "contact" form on this page. Until next time, be careful out there.

Posted by Craig P. Niedenthal | Permalink | Email This Post | Comments (0)

Posted In: Consumer Products , Recalls of the Week

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Back to give you an update on some of the most important recent recalls. Been crazy busy and thus my time for blogging has suffered. Still looking to dedicate 2-3 days a week to post. Ahh, the life of a solo practice attorney --- never enough hours in the day. So here we go with the recalls:

1. Toyota/Lexus Floor Mats:The biggest news in problematic products is Toyota's most recent announcement that it is recalling some 3.8 million Lexus and Toyota vehicles to remove factory installed driver-side floor mats in order to prevent the gas pedal from becoming trapped leading to unintended acceleration. In other words, your gas pedal can become stuck by the floor mat and even though you take your foot off the gas pedal, it will continue moving and potentially accelerating. The vehicles involved include 2005-2010 Avalon, 2007-2010 Camry, 2004-2009 Prius, 2005-2010 Tacoma, 2007-2010 Tundra, 2007-2010 ES350 and 2006-2010 IS250 and 350. Its unclear what may have prompted Toyota to undergo this massive recall, but there was a horrible crash in California in late August 2009 involving an off duty police officer and a Lexus ES sedan where there is indication a misaligned floor mat may have lead to the accident. Toyota is asking owners to immediately remove the driver's side mats and to not replace them while Toyota works on creating model-specific replacements. Consumer Reports recommends that if you get in a situation where your car is not slowing down, to immediately put your car in neutral, and then brake which should help bring your car to a stop. Here is a link to Consumer Reports discussion of the issue and testing they have done to address this concern. This is a very serious issue and one that all owners of the affected vehicles must address.

2. Quantum Office Chair @ Office Depot Stores: The Quantum Realspace PRO 9000 Mid-Back Multifunction Mesh Chair, sold exclusively at Office Depot, is being recalled because the bolts which attach the seatback can loosen and detach, creating risk of injury to the user. The chairs were sold at Office Depot between May 2006 and August 2009. The recall does not include the Guest Chair version. If you own one of the chairs, you should stop using it immediately and contact the manufacturer, Raynor (866-244-8180) for a free repair kit.

3. Diving Air Hose for Dry Suits by SI Tech: SI Tech is recalling its Diving Air Hose for Dry Suits, of which about 65,000 have been sold by diving equipment retailers and distributors between July 2006 and February 2009. The hose has an insert that can dislodge and restrict airflow to the diver, raising the potential for a drowning hazard. One death of a diver has occurred and been reported. These hosed were sold with dry suits and separately. If you have one of these hoses, you should stop using it immediately and contact SI Tech (1-877-348-3529) who will provide you with the name of an authorized dealer who can do a free repair.

4. Paula Deen Cast Iron Cookware: Now I love me some Food Network and always watching to see how much butter and sugar Paula is putting in them recipes, but some of her cookware, sold through QVC is being recalled because it can crack or shatter, raising potential for injury to the user. There have been 79 reports of the cookware cracking or shattering when heated. That's a problem, since that is the purpose of cookware. The recalled cookware is the 11 inch cast iron grill pans and griddles sold through QVC with item numbers K14984, K11970 and K135024. The cookware was sold between October 2007 and July 2009. If you have any of this cookware, stop using it immediately and you can return it to QVC for a full refund. Now this is not Paula's fault, but where were the quality control people??? Hard to make those "best dishes" if my cookware is falling apart.

That's all for this week. Check in tomorrow as I will have a post regarding a recent article in the American Bar Association's monthly magazine feature yours truly. Until next time, be careful out there.

Posted by Craig P. Niedenthal | Permalink | Email This Post | Comments (0)

Posted In: Cars , Consumer Products , Recalls , Recalls of the Week

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We have some pretty big recalls this week. So here we go.

1. Baby Jogger City Mini Strollers: I remember when my younger son was an infant, strollers that you could jog with were becoming the big craze, what with the increased interest in fitness and health. Well, Baby Jogger is recalling about 41,000 of its City Mini Strollers because the restraint buckle to keep the child in can break or unlatch, which allows the child/infant to fall out. The recall involves both the single and the double strollers. The word "City Mini" is printed on the stroller. For a chart providing you the item numbers and date codes of the recalled strollers, see here. These strollers were sold between November 2007 through July 2009. If you have one of these strollers, stop using it immediately (although you can continue to jog, just not with your child in it) and contact Baby Jogger to get a free restraint buckle.

2. Frigidaire and Kenmore Elite Smoothtop Electric Ranges: Frigidaire is recalling about 200,000 of it and Kenmore's Elite Smoothtop Electric Ranges because the surface heating elements can turn on by itself without being switched on, fail to turn off when switched off, or heat to different temperatures than you selected. This creates a potential for fire and burn problems. The recall involves Frigidaire, Frigidaire Gallery, Frigidaire Professional and Kenmore Elite smoothtop electric ranges with rotary knobs and digital displays. If you look here, it has the listing of the model and serial numbers involved in the recall. If you have one of these ranges, stop using it immediately and call Frigidaire or Sears to schedule a free repair.

3. Thermal Sailcloth and Matchstick Bamboo Roman Shades Sold Exclusively at Target: These shades, which were sold only at Target and Target.com, are being recalled because a child could be strangled if he puts his neck between the exposed inner cord and the fabric on the backside of the blind or if a child pulls the cord out and wraps it around his neck. The recall includes both the Thermal Sailcloth and Matchstick Bamboo roman shades. For additional information regarding the shades involved in this recall see here. If you have these shades, contact Victoria Classics, the importer of the shades and they will send you a free repair kit.

4. Roman Shades Sold Exclusively at Pottery Barn Kids: Another strangulation concern with shades, this one at a store that sells its products specifically for use in kids rooms. Pottery Barn Kids is recalling Roman Shades it has sold between January 2003 and May 2007 through either its website or catalog because again, a child can place his neck between the exposed inner cord and the fabric on the backside of the blind and create a potential for strangulation. The recall involves all sizes and colors. For more information regarding the specific shades involved in the recall, see here. If you have these shades, stop using them and contact Pottery Barn Kids who will provide you with a merchandise card for the purchase value.

5. Maytag, Magic Chef, Performa by Maytag and Crosley Refrigerators: This is the expansion of a previous recall back in March 2009 adding another 46,000 units to this recall. I wrote about the previous recall here. These additional models are being recalled again for an electrical failure in the part that turns off the compressor, which can cause overheating and create a risk of fire. The refrigerators involved were sold between September 2000 and May 2004. For a complete listing of the model and serial numbers involved, see here. If you have one of these refrigerators, you should contact Maytag (where is that Maytag repairman when you need him) and they will send someone out for a free in-home repair.

Those are the most significant recalls of this past week. Remember to check up weekly with this blog to get the latest information on major recalls of consumer products and drugs. You can also subscribe above and have it come into your reader. Until next time, be careful out there.

Posted by Craig P. Niedenthal | Permalink | Email This Post | Comments (0)

Posted In: Consumer Products , Recalls of the Week

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Back again with the Recalls of the Week. Still working on blogging on a more regular basis. Starting next week I will be trying for at least 2, if not 3 blog posts a week. So here is what has been going on this week in the world of recalls:

1. Circo Booster Seats: Target is recalling its Circo Booster seats, of which about 43,000 have been sold between December 2008 and June 2009. There is a problem with the restraint buckle which can open unexpectedly, allowing a child to fall off the chair. You need to look for manufacture date codes of XJ0811, XJ0812, XJ0901, and XJ0902. This date code is printed on the backside of the seat, next to a consumer warning label. If you have one of these booster seats, stop using it immediately and return it to the nearest Target for a complete refund.

2. Safety 1st Stair Gate: The Safety 1st SmartLight Stair Gates are being recalled because the hinges that hold the stair gate in place can break, creating a potential fall hazard for children. Look for model number 42111 which is printed on a sticker under the handle panel. They were sold at Babies R Us, Toys R Us, Walmart and other online retailers between January 2005 through July 2009. Also look for a manufacture date before December 20, 2008 which will be located below the gate's handle and also can be found on a sticker inside the battery door. If you have one of these Stair Gates, stop using it immediately and contact the company to obtain a free repair kit.

3. Polaris Ranger "Crew" and "6x6" Side-by-Side Recreational Vehicles: Polaris is recalling about 3,800 of its Ranger "Crew" and "6x6" Recreational Vehicles due to an electrical short that can cause overheating and risk of fire. For specific model numbers involved, see here. The affected vehicles were sold between December 2008 and July 2009. If you have one of these vehicles, stop using it immediately and contact your Polaris dealer to schedule a free repair of the vehicle.

4. Black and Decker GH1000 Grasshog XP String Trimmer and Edger: Black and Decker is recalling about 200,000 of its Grasshog XP String Trimmer/Edger because the spool, spool cap and pieces of the trimmer string can come loose and become airborne projectiles, creating a hazard to users and bystanders. The trimmers can also overheat leading to a risk of burn to the user. The date codes at issue are 200546 through 200645 and are located on the underside of the trimmer/edger's handle. The recall only involves those with black spool cabs, not orange. These products were sold at major home center and hardware stores between November 2005 through January 2007. If you have one of these edger/trimmer, stop using it immediately and contact Black and Decker for a free repair kit.

5. Frigidaire Clothes Washer: Various washers manufactured by Frigidare, under the names Frigidaire, Crosley, Kelvinator, Kenmore, Wascomat and White-Westinghouse are being recalled due to a defect in the washer's drain pump which can cause heat to build up and lead to fire. For a list of all the models involved, see here. These washers were sold at Sears and other retailers between February 2009 and May 2009. If you have one of these machines, stop using it and unplug it immediately. Contact Frigidaire or Sears to schedule a free repair.

That's it for this week. Remember to be careful out there. If you need any help with these recalled products or have had a problem caused by a recalled product, you are welcome to contact me to discuss it.

Posted by Craig P. Niedenthal | Permalink | Email This Post | Comments (0)

Posted In: Consumer Products , Recalls , Recalls of the Week

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I'M BACK!!! Alright, I never said I was going away, but it just sort of happened. Between a couple personal trips for family members' weddings and being very busy at work, it has been difficult to find the time. But I'm back on the horse and committed to blogging again on a more regular basis. Figured the best way was to start with the Recalls of the Week. So here is what's been going on in the world of significant recalls over this past week.

1. Baby Swede Bouncer Chairs: Baby Swede is recalling the BabyBjorn Babysitter Balance and Babysitter Balance Air which are bouncer chairs for infants. It has sold about 6,500 of these throughout the United States between September 2008 and July 2009. These bouncer chairs have been found to have sharp metal objects in the padded area of the chair that can protrude and cut the child. If you have one of these, stop using it immediately and contact BabySwede (www.babyswede.com) to get instructions on how to return the chairs for inspection and if metal pieces are found, it will be replaced with a new one.

2. 2009 Polaris ATV: Polaris is recalling approximately 4,700 Model year 2009 Sportsman ESP XP 850 and XP 850 ATV because the valve assembly can fail in freezing temperatures, which can cause oil to leak on the exhaust system, potentially leading to a fire and burn hazard to the rider. Polaris has instructed users of the ATV to stop using the ATV in sub-freezing temperatures and contact their local Polaris dealer for a free repair. Given that there are very few areas in the U.S. right now with sub-freezing temperatures, this is not that big a concern right now. But if you live in an area where that is expected, I would take care of this as soon as you can.

3. Orbitrek Elite and Orbitrek Elite Magnetic Eliptical Exercise Gliders: These eliptical exercise machines, sold through infomercials between March 2007 and May 2009 and through www.thane.com , are being recalled because the instructions with the machine were wrong and incorrectly identified where you were to install a spring washer. This incorrect instruction can cause the bolts to loosen and thus a potential fall hazard to the user. You should stop using the eliptical immediately and inspect your machine to see if the spring washer is in the correct location. You can obtain the correct assembly instructions on the Thane website.

4. Buster Brown Children's Clog Shoes: These clog shoes, which look like cars and were sold through Bealls', Famous Footwear, J.C. Penney, Meijer, Rack Room, Sears, Target and Wal-Mart between August 2008 and June 2009, are being recalled because the decorative wheels can detach and pose a choking hazard to young children. There have been about 1.4 million..yes million, of these shoes sold. If your child has these shoes, you should immediately take them away and return them where you bought them for a full refund. For photos of these shoes, see here.

That's it for this week. I am really glad to be back and hope to be updating you with the latest information regarding issues about defective and problematic products for weeks, months and years to come. Remember, be careful out there.

Posted by Craig P. Niedenthal | Permalink | Email This Post | Comments (0)

Posted In: Consumer Products , Recalls , Recalls of the Week

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The New York Times printed an Associated Press article which may strike a fear in many parents' hearts. More and more communities are putting down synthetic turf fields for kids to play soccer, football and other field sports. These synthetic fields use ground up rubber tires as the filler between the blades of grass. The cleats that the kids wear when playing can pull out tiny pieces of this ground up rubber which can then expose the kids to these chemicals should they inhale or swallow them.

Rubber tires are made from chemicals that are known carcinogens. This is where the concern is raised. It is reported that Connecticut and California are conducting their own studies on the health effects of artificial turf. There have been some studies done in both the U.S. and Europe which looked at the potential exposure and health risks to those using turf and have concluded that any health effects are unlikely. This same rubber is used for solid playgrounds and track surfaces. However, it is not as much of a concern in those situations since the surface is in the form of a mat.

Other health concerns have been raised regarding use of turf, including the heat generated when using the turf. Temperatures in the range of 130 to 140 degrees have been measured on these fields, which raise the potential risk of heat stress or heat stroke. The fields do cost significantly more than natural grass, but they save significantly on maintenance costs. The article indicates there are artificial turfs made with alternatives such as cork or coconut husks as fill.

At this point, the jury is still out. However, it is something to think about next time you sign your child up for that community soccer league.

Posted by Craig P. Niedenthal | Permalink | Email This Post | Comments (1)

Posted In: Consumer Products

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Some important issues have arisen in recalls over the past week, so let's get to it.

1. Hydroxycut Products: Last week I wrote this post on the day many of Hydroxycut's products were withdrawn from the market. There is an indication that ingestion of various of the Hydroxycut products can lead to kidney and liver damage. It can also cause a condition called rhabdomyolysis. I am familiar with this condition because it was a condition caused by another drug pulled off the market in 2001, Baycol, a statin, anti-cholesterol drug. If not caught early on, this condition, which starts with muscle ache and pain, and can later cause one to have cola colored urine, can shut down the kidneys and ultimately lead to death. These are serious consequences which can occur as a result of taking this over the counter "supplement". Here is a link to the FDA's Q & A page on the recall of Hydroxycut, as well as an article explaining about the FDA's lack of oversight of the supplement world from BNET Pharma website. .

2. Defective Chinese Drywall: Although not the subject of an actual recall, I have had several posts addressing this problem and just wanted to provide a brief update. According to the Sarasota Herald Tribune, earlier this week, on both the House and Senate side, requests were made to provide the Consumer Product Safety Commission $2 million for it to move forward on testing of Chinese Drywall, as well as providing of public information. This continues to be a significant safety issue and although not the subject of a recall as of yet, that appears to be where this is heading. Additionally, Consumer Reports indicates that the Florida Attorney General has become aware of scams which have arisen as a result of the defective Chinese drywall. These include companies promoting bogus tests to determine if you have the product, as well as quick cure remedies that falsely claim to get rid of the problems with the drywall. Leave it to the scam artists to take advantage of people who are already facing serious problems with their greatest financial investment....their home.

3. Jardine Cribs: Its happening again. Jardine cribs have been the subject of two prior recalls. Now a third recall of about 96,000 cribs that have been sold in places such as Toys "R" Us, Babies "R" Us and KidsWorld. It is reported that the side slats on the crib can break, which can cause a gap that can allow a baby to get his or her head stuck and may lead to strangulation. There have been 31 reports of the slats breaking, including 2 reports of children getting stuck in the gap caused by the broken slat. 7 models are included in this recall and are shown on this page from the CPSC. If you do have one of these recalled cribs, you should stop using it immediately and call Jardine and you will receive full credit toward the purchase of another crib.

4. Under Armour Athletic Cups: On this one, as a guy, all I can say is "OUCH"! Under Armour is recalling over 200,000 of its Athletic Cups as they can break when hit, posing a risk of serious injury to the guy wearing it. Bottom line, it doesn't' do what it is suppose to do....protect the "family jewels" as my junior high gym teacher use to say. This recall involves all athletic cups that have the Under Armour logo, including youth and teen sizes. These cups were sold between January 2006 and March 2009. If you have one of these cups, stop using it immediately and contact Under Armour and they will provide you a $20 voucher for use online or at its stores. For more information, see Under Armour's website here.

5. Haier Toaster Oven/Broilers: The Haier Toaster Oven/Broiler is being recalled because of problematic electrical connections which can come loose and cause electrical shock and burns. There have been over 100,000 of these Toaster Ovens sold between September 2006 through January 2009. The model number that is a problem is RTO1400SS. For a picture of the Toaster Oven in question, see here. If you have one of these Toaster Ovens, stop using it immediately and contact Haier to get a free replacement.

That's all I have for you this week. Please be careful out there. If you have had any issues with the products talked about above, or any other products, please contact me and I will be happy to discuss it with you. I will help in anyway I can.

Posted by Craig P. Niedenthal | Permalink | Email This Post | Comments (0)

Posted In: Consumer Products , Drywall , Hydroxycut , Other Products , Recalls , Recalls of the Week

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The FDA Issued a warning this morning to advise consumers of Hydroxycut products to stop using the products IMMEDIATELY as there is indication some of the Hydroxycut products are associated with a number of serious liver injuries. The Wall Street Journal reports that the FDA has received 23 serious reports of health problems with Hydroxycut products, such as jaundice and elevated liver enzymes, to liver damage requiring a liver transplant, as well as one death of a 19 year old male due to liver failure. Other health issues reported while taking the supplements include seizures, heart problems, and rhabdomyolysis, a muscle damage condition that can cause kidney failure. Symptoms of liver damage as reported by the FDA include jaundice, brown urine, nausea, vomiting, light-colored stools, excessive fatigue, weakness, itching and loss of appetite. The products are generally marketed as "fat burners" and "energy enhancers".

Apparently as a result of the issuance of this warning by the FDA, the manufacturer of Hydroxycut products has agreed to voluntarily recall 14 of its products including Hydroxycut Regular Rapid Release Caplets, Caffeine-Free Rapid Release Caplets, Hardcore Liquid Caplets, Max Liquid Caplets, Regular Drink Packets and Max Drink Packets. For a complete listing of all Hydroxycut products being recalled, see the FDA's website. The Hydroxycut Cleanse and Hoodia products are not being recalled because they do not contain the same type of ingredients as the products which have been shown to be problematic.

It is important to understand that unlike pharmaceutical drugs, dietary supplements such as the Hydroxycut products do not need to prove to the FDA that the products are safe and effective before they are marketed. The FDA can only look at the effects of the product once it is being sold and relies on voluntary reports of problems. The manufacturer is not required to advise of potential problems they have been told about with the supplement.

At this point it is still unclear what substance in the Hydroxycut products being recalled is associated with causing the liver damage. The L.A. Times reports that a medical journal last month raised questions about an ingredient in the products called hydroxycitric acid, which is derived from tropical fruit. The article indicated that this ingredient could damage the liver.

Over the past 10-15 years, as I have focused more on my own fitness and health, I have from time to time tried various supplements. Although I have never used any Hydroxycut products, I have used others and there are two things I learned; yes they do work sometimes, and just because they are referred to as "dietary supplements", does not mean they are safe. As indicated above, the safety testing the FDA requires before marketing for pharmaceutical drugs is not required, thus leaving open the real risk that a supplement can cause a serious adverse effect such as being described with Hydroxycut. Bottom line when considering whether to take a supplement, do all your homework, including investigating what information may be available online, before you take the plunge.

If you have any thoughts or concerns regarding this recall, including issues of potential injury from taking one of the recalled Hydroxycut products, please contact me.

Posted by Craig P. Niedenthal | Permalink | Email This Post | Comments (0)

Posted In: Consumer Products , Hydroxycut , Recalls

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Some significant recalls this week. I hope you are finding some value in these weekly (I try) posts advising you of the most significant recalls over the last week. Would love to hear your thoughts about this weekly post and and suggestions or recommendations to make it better. Now, on with the countdown (yeah, quoting Kasey Kassem):
1. Electrolux Cordless Stick Vacuums: About 320,000 of these vacuums are being recalled because the battery can expand and burst, which could injure the user or bystanders. Electrolux has received 34 reports of this problem occurring with damage to surrounding property. These vacuums are 2-in-1 cordless stick vacuums with detachable hand vacuum. The units have 9.6 volts printed on the serial plate. The vacuums were sold between November 2007 and March 2009 at major retailers. For more information, see here. If you have one of these vacuums, stop using it immediately and call Electrolux for a free replacement of the handheld portion which contains the battery. You can also go to the following website: www.stickvacrecall.com for more information.

2. Fisher-Price 3-in1 High Chairs:I try and always post about any recalls which could effect children given their frailty and lack of knowledge. These 3-in-1 high chairs are being recalled by Fisher-Price because the seat can fall backwards from the high chair frame if the booster seat is unlatched while the child is in the seat. The seat back can also detach if not fully snapped in place. Both pose significant risk of falling to small children. It is reported that the manufacturer is aware of one report of child falling as a result of this problem and fracturing his skull. The product number is P5369 and is printed on the side of the seat and on a label on the seat pad. The high chair was sold at Target from December 2008 through March 2009. If you have one of these chairs, stop using it immediately and contact Fisher-Price for a free repair kit. For information on this recall, see here.

3. Aviva Sports Recalls Trampolines: Two trampolines manufactured by Aviva Sports; the Leaps and Bounds Folding Trampolines with Safety Pad and the Private Jump 'N Play Trampolines, are being recalled because the metal legs can bend or break and the bungee cords that secure the mat to the frame of the trampoline can fray or break. Both of these situations can pose a fall hazard to the user. The model numbers involved are 12731 (printed on the pad that goes around the frame of the product) and 0840525 (printed on the enclosure). The products were sold by sports equipment e-retailers and catalogs between September 2006 and January 2009. For more information and pictures of the trampolines involved see here. If you have one of these trampolines, stop using it immediately and contact Aviva to find out how to return the trampoline and get a full refund.

4. Baby Necessities Pacifiers: About 2900 of these pacifiers have been sold at Dollar and discount stores between August of 2007 through January 2009. However, they have been banned by federal law because the nipples separate from the base, posing a risk of choking. The pacifiers have a blue heart-shaped mouth guard and were sold in pack of 4. For more information, see here. You should immediately stop using these pacifiers and contact OKK Trading, the importer, for refund or exchange.

5. Zebco Children's Fishing Poles: About 2700 of these fishing poles have been sold between August 2007 through December 2008. The recall involves the Zebco Advanced Youth Fishing Rod & Reel combo sets which are painted orange and have the words "Zebco" and "ZAVS" printed on the reel handle. The paint on the reels have excessive amounts of lead and yes, it is made in China. If you have one of these fishing poles, you should immediately take it from your child and then contact Zebco about getting a refund. For more information about this recall, see here.

Those are the biggies coming up this week. Again, please let me know your thoughts and comments about how I can make these weekly posts better and of use to you in the future. Until next time, be careful out there.

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Time for the Recalls of the Week. Other than peanut butter, not alot has been going on in this arena these past few weeks. That's a good thing actually. Anyway, although short and sweet, here's what we got:

1. Peanut Butter update:As you know I have previously posted about the peanut butter recall here and here. Companies throughout the country continue to recall products daily on the concern they may have had product from The Peanut Corporation of America (PCA). Make sure you review the FDA's site providing up to date information regarding products which have been recalled. PCA has now closed all its plants and a total of 9 people are reported to have died from salmonella related to its products. Last Friday, PCA filed for bankruptcy. It should be noted that national brands of jarred peanut butter have not been implicated in this recall. Both the New York Times and Washington Post wrote editorials last week addressing how this recall should be a loud call to the Obama administration that we need to do things to sure up our food supply. The FDA, due to its lack of money and size, cannot do it and we as Americans deserve a safe food supply. We cannot count on Corporate America to be good corporate citizens who will follow the rules of safe manufacturing and processing. We have seen too many times that left to its own devices, many companies will cut corners in an effort to maximize their profit at the cost of consumer safety. Now is the time!.

2. Evenflo Activity Centers: Evenflo is recalling over 200,000 Activity Centers which is a product made for infants and young children. When used as an activity table, cap on one end of the product can come off, posing a risk of falling for a young child. The recall includes Evenflo ExerSaucer Triple Fun stationary activity centers made between October 2006 through February 2009. If you have one of these, you should stop using it immediately and call Evenflo for a free replacement cap. For more information, see here.

3. True Value Wheelbarrows: True Value is recalling about 17,000 Green Thumb Twin Wheelbarrows it has sold in its stores from September 2008 through October 2008. Over-inflating of the tires could cause the wheel's plastic rim to break, posing risk of injury to the user. There have been two reports of the plastic rims breaking. If you have one of these, you should stop using it immediately and return it to any True Value store for a full refund. For more information, see here.

That's all we have for this week. Tune in next week for another installment of Recalls of the Week. If you have any questions or issues regarding a recalled product, please feel free to contact me.

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For the past several weeks it seems like every day several products are recalled due to a peanut butter paste and peanut butter made by one plant in Georgia owned by Peanut Corporation of America due to risk of salmonella poisoning. It was originally thought by the FDA and others that since these products were manufactured in large containers for distribution to manufacturers of peanut based products and to large institutions, the most significant concern was cafeterias, nursing homes and schools which obtain this large vats of peanut butter for use in their facilities. Now we come to find that the use of these products are throughout the food chain in everything from health food bars, to peanut butter cracker, cookies and baked goods and most recently, animal products such as dog treats.

Speaking personally, I love peanut butter, but tend to use the either fresh ground peanut variety where you grind your own peanuts in a machine which many grocery stores now have, or the already jarred variety that is basically just pure ground peanuts with no additives. And both my dogs absolutely love dog treats with peanut butter. But ultimately this massive recall of products have included some of the health bars that I eat as meal replacements...now this is hitting me where it counts!!!

The story took an even more concerning turn today with the Washington Post reporting that the Peanut Corporation of America KNOWINGLY shipped out contaminated peanut butter 12 times in the past 2 years. The FDA has now indicated that the Peanut Corporation of America had performed internal tests 12 times in 2007 and 2008 which tested positive for salmonella, but sold the products anyway. This is outrageous. Moreover, there is no requirement that companies inform the FDA or any other governmental organization the results of their own internal testing. It appears the FDA, again understaffed, left inspecting of the plant to the Georgia Department of Agriculture. The Georgia Department of Agriculture as well claims it is understaffed and do not do as many inspections as it would like through the year. For an in depth discussion of the lack of inspections for plants manufacturing peanut based products, see this AP article appearing in yesterdays Chicago Tribune.

The FDA has an ongoing list of all the many products which have been recalled as a result of this problem. It ranges from cakes, to candy, ice cream and as mentioned above, pet food. If you have any questions or hesitation on whether to eat anything with peanuts as one of its ingredients, please review this list. And believe me, at this point it is almost changing hourly. My suggestion, don't' eat any products with any type of peanut additive or flavoring of any type. For my peanut fix, I am going to stick with grinding my own peanuts in the machine at the store. We need to wait some time for the extent of this recall to be defined.

If you or a family member have any questions about this recall or someone you know has gotten ill as a result of eating a peanut based product within the past couple months, please feel free to contact me. Until next time, be careful out there.

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Time once again for the weekly wrap-up of significant recalls of products. Its been somewhat of a busy week, so let's get to it:

1. Recall of Peanut Butter by Peanut Corporation: This has been highlighted in the news over the last couple days. The Peanut Corporation is recalling a large amount of peanut butter produced at its plant in Blakely, GA due to potential for it being contaminated with Salmonella. Of most significance is that this peanut butter is sold in bulk to the institutional and food service industry and not to consumers directly. Thus, it is used typically in schools, nursing homes, restaurants and hospitals. The Salmonella outbreak has been linked to 400 people getting sick in 43 states. Apparently the illnesses began September 15, 2008, with most of the people getting sick after October 1st. Why does it take so long to impose the recall? This issue was addressed in Consumer Reports recently. Bottom line, if you or anyone you know goes to any hospital, restaurant, senior's home and most importantly schools, tell them not to eat the peanut butter they serve for at least the next month or so, till this recall gets completely clarified. For more information from the FDA about this recall, see here.

2. Stork Craft Baby Cribs: Last week I told you about Jardine recalling 50,000 more cribs. Now, Stork Craft is recalling over 500,000...yes half a million.....of its Baby Cribs because the support brackets that support the mattress can break, causing the mattress to collapse, permitting the baby to get caught in the gap between the mattress and the crib rails which can lead to serious injury. All the affected cribs were manufactured between May 2000 and November 2008. The firm's name, Stork Craft, is on the assembly instructions and the firm's insignia, "Storkcraft baby" is inscribed on the dropside teething rail of some of the cribs. These cribs were sold at J.C. Penny, Walmart, Kmart and online at Amazon, Costco, Sears and Babiesrus.com between May 2000 and January 2009. If you have one of these cribs, you should stop using it immediately, find a safe sleeping environment for your child, and contact Stork Craft to get a free replacement kit with new support brackets. For more information, see here.

3. '08-'09 Dodge Ram 2500 & 3500: Chrysler is recalling approximately 32,000 Dodge Ram 2500 and 3500, model years 2008 and 2009 for a problem with the steering linkage. It is reported that if the problem occurs, it could result in a loss of steering control and restrict the ability to turn the vehicle. Obviously, very dangerous consequences. The recall is to start this month. If you are concerned, call Chrysler at 1-800-853-1403. The plan is for the dealership to replace the problematic component in the steering linkage. For more details on this recall, see here.

4. Fisher-Price Simplicity's Rainforest Portable Play Yards: This recall was just issued this morning. There are about 200,000 of these Play Yards on the market, which can only be described as an updated version of a playpen. The CPSC reports that the actual manufacturer of these Play Yards, Simplicity Inc. and SFCA Inc. have not been responding to the CPSC's request to recall these products nor have they responded to consumer complaints. The problem with these Play Yards is that the rails can collapse, posing a potential for a fall or entrapment of the young child in the Play Yard. CPSC has received 1,350 reports of these rails collapsing. There have been reports of a broken nose, broken wrist, concussion and chipped tooth so the injuries can be significant. The products have a Rainforest patterned fabric and artwork, have the "Fisher-Price" logo, and are model number 5310RNF, 5310RNFC, and 5310RNFW. The model number is on a sticker on one of the legs underneath the Play Yard. This product was sold at retailers nationwide from January 2007 through January 2009 for about $100. You should stop using this Play Yard immediately and although it did not manufacture the product, Fisher-Price has agreed to assist consumers who own the product. You should contact Fisher-Price should you have one of these products at 800-432-5437. For more information, see here and for information from Fisher-Price on the recall, see here.

That's what I have for you this week. If you have questions regarding the recall of any of these products, or injuries caused by these products, please feel free to contact me. I will be more than happy to do what I can to assist you. Until next week, be careful out there.

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Sorry its been almost a week since I've posted, but been running around looking at colleges with my oldest son who is a senior in high school and graduating in about a month. Amazing the way these almost 18 years have flown by. All I can tell you is no matter what you save for your child's college education, it will never be enough. The college financial system is broke and needs to change soon or it will all come crashing down.

Anyway, saw this little blurb that I just had to comment on. The fake "Hillbilly Teeth" have been recalled because the paint used has too much lead in it. When we first moved to Alabama almost 11 years ago, I think I bought a pair of these and wore them to my old law firm's main office in Florida. Since I knew what some at my old firm thought of those in Alabama, thought I'd show them I fit in now that I lived there. What they have never figured out is Alabama is the best kept secret. Figured this would help keep them away and leave all the great things we have here to those of us who know how truly amazing this place is. Of course, that was before the days of everything made in China and the lead paint they love to use over in China. Well guess what??? The "Hillbilly Teeth" are made in China and they continue to use lead paint. Guess if you wear these fake teeth long enough you won't need them because your real teeth...what you have left....would look just like the fake ones.

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