Australian authorities have issued an urgent recall for a metallic cake decorating powder after a Queensland toddler became critically ill from accidental exposure. The product, sold across Australia since 2019, may contain copper and zinc, which are harmful if inhaled or ingested.
Incident Details
Two-year-old Dusty Wildman was rushed to emergency surgery and placed in an induced coma after getting his hands on and inhaling the dust. His mother, Katie Robinson, a professional baker, stated that the product was labeled 'non-toxic.'
Robinson expressed her distress: "He will need physio and probably an occupational therapist. Doctors are saying he will likely have a lifelong injury to his lungs, but we're hoping he proves them wrong."
Recall Information
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) advises consumers to immediately stop using the metallic dust, keep it away from children, and return it for a refund. Crumb Australia, the supplier of the Creative brand powder, had already withdrawn the product from sale before the ACCC's formal nationwide recall.
Health officials emphasize that these powders are meant to be used to decorate removable ornaments on cakes and are not intended for consumption. The incident highlights the dangers of products containing heavy metals like copper and zinc, which can cause severe respiratory damage if inhaled.
