Potentially Life-Threatening Teething Jewellery Banned in Ireland
Teething jewellery that poses a potential threat to the lives of babies has been banned from sale in Ireland. The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) has taken action to stop the sale and marketing of amber bead products, which are often used as teething aids in the form of necklaces, bracelets, and anklets. These products have been found to present serious risks to babies and young children, including the possibility of strangulation and choking.
The CCPC has issued a warning to the public to be vigilant and report any instances of these dangerous teething beads or other hazardous products being marketed for use with children. Grainne Griffin, director of communications at CCPC, emphasized that while teething can be a challenging time for parents and children, it is crucial to prioritize safety over potential remedies that may pose risks.
Dr. Abigail Collins, HSE national clinical lead for Child Health Public Health, highlighted the lack of evidence supporting claims that amber teething jewellery provides pain relief. Instead, she recommended safe alternatives such as teething rings, sugar-free teething gel, and cold items for babies to chew on. It is essential to avoid placing any cords, strings, or chains around a baby’s neck and to keep small objects like beads out of reach of babies and young children.
The CCPC has collaborated with the Health Service Executive (HSE) and other European product-safety authorities to address the issue of potentially harmful teething products in the market. The public is encouraged to stay informed and report any concerns regarding the safety of products intended for children.