Two supermarkets – Sainsbury’s and Matalan – have recalled the Beeline Belly Bar following warnings that the jewellery contains an “elevated nickel value” that could pose a danger
Two major supermarkets have recalled a popular stocking filler following warnings of a “serious chemical risk”.
Sainsbury’s and Matalan have pulled the Beeline Belly Bar, flower-themed belly-button jewellery, as it contains an “elevated value” of one particular metal. Notices issued by the two supermarkets state they contain an “elevated nickel value” that could prove dangerous when the jewellery is embedded in a piercing.
The pendant, a bar attached to a metal daisy, “presents a chemical risk”, as nickel is a known “skin sensitiser” that can cause allergic reactions. The Office for Product Safety and Standards said in a statement that people may develop reactions following “prolonged contact”. The statement reads: “The product presents a chemical risk as elevated levels of nickel were found.
“Nickel is a skin sensitiser and can cause allergic reactions if present in articles that come into direct and prolonged contact with the skin.” In its own statement, the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) said exposure to elevated nickel can also lead to contact dermatitis and that any contact with a material that may cause it should be “ceased immediately”.
The organisation warned: “Skin exposure to nickel or its compounds can lead to skin irritation and allergic contact dermatitis (an immunological reaction leading to skin sensitisation expressed as reddening/rash on the skin). Nickel contact dermatitis was often seen in individuals who wore nickel containing jewellery in the past, but stringent controls are now in place to ensure that this is no longer a significant route of exposure.
“Following the EU nickel directive, which implemented a maximum level of nickel that could be released from such items, exposures have been reduced or prevented. If contact dermatitis (red skin rash) occurs following skin exposure to items containing nickel, contact should be ceased immediately.”
Beeline has apologised to customers following the recall, stating it had the belly bar removed from sale “in order to guarantee the greatest possible protection” for customers. The jewellery makers said people would be able to return any purchased items “by any means” including partner shops.
A representative said: “Product safety is our and our partner’s top priority. In order to guarantee the greatest possible protection, we have decided to remove the belly bar from sale. During follow-up checks, an elevated nickel value was found in a part of the belly bar which exceeds the legal limit. Wearing this belly bar can cause allergic reactions.
“You can, of course, return items you have already purchased to us by any means, such as this partner’s store. Even without a receipt, you will be refunded the purchase price. If you have any further questions, please contact us as supplier of this product via: [email protected].
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused.”
