Popular stocking filler recalled over fears of ‘chemical risk’

Sainsbury’s is among the stores that stock the popular Christmas present (Picture: Bloomberg)

Sainsbury’s and Matalan have urgently recalled the Beeline Belly Bar, a popular Christmas present, due to a ‘serious chemical risk’.

The flower-themed body jewellery, which is a popular stocking filler, has been found to contain an ‘elevated value’ of nickel, a metal that can cause allergic reactions.

Both retailers issued warnings saying that the high nickel content could be dangerous when the jewellery is used in a piercing.

The Office for Product Safety and Standards highlighted the potential for allergic reactions following ‘prolonged contact’ with the product.

In a statement, they warned: ‘The product presents a chemical risk as elevated levels of nickel were found.’

They further explained that nickel is a known ‘skin sensitiser’ and can cause allergic reactions if it comes into direct and prolonged contact with the skin.

The Beeline Belly Bar is said to contain high levels of nickel

The UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) also issued a statement, warning that exposure to elevated levels of nickel can lead to contact dermatitis and advised that any contact with materials that may cause this condition should be ‘ceased immediately’.

The organisation issued a stark warning: ‘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.’

They added: ‘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 issued an apology to its customers after recalling a product, assuring them it had removed the belly bar from sale ‘in order to guarantee the greatest possible protection’ for consumers.

The company confirmed that customers could return any purchased items ‘by any means’, including through partner shops.

A spokesperson commented: ‘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: product.safety@beeline-group.com.’

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