Or...More On Our Exposure to Lead.
Yesterday we talked about lead in our fruit juices. Well today's headlines are about lead and children's toys.
USA Today ran an article that details the impact to small businesses that are felt by legislation meant to keep lead and other toxins away from products for children. We know that toxins like lead and phthalates are used in many manufacturing processes, so the government places the responsibility on companies selling these products to ensure their safety. Testing these items can be timely and expensive and the small business may face costly exposure if their goods turn out contaminated.
Some companies take preventative steps by contracting only with suppliers and factories that guarantee they, and their products, will meet U.S. strict safety laws and test their products regularly to prove so. As a former product buyer and importer, I have conducted many quality visits to factories to make sure they were upholding their end of our agreement and understand how things can inadvertently "slip" if precautions aren't taken seriously.
But I'm a parent now, and I expect the manufacturers to put a portion of the cost of their goods to take every precaution possible and necessary to help me keep my children safe from toxins.
Are my expectations unrealistic?
We tend to buy toys and other products for our kids and as gifts from companies who don't manufacture their items in China, use wood or other sustainable and safe materials, and follow other eco-friendly practices. I wish it were easier to find these companies and less expensive to buy their products so that more consumers would make these choices. And someday it will. These types of items are beginning to show up on the shelves of mainstream retailers like Target and Toys R Us, as shoppers vote with their almighty dollar for the green choice.
What steps are you taking to avoid (or minimize) your family's exposure to toxins? How do you find products that meet your standards?
Plan Toys Chalet Doll HouseI have to say, we love Plan Toys and have many of their toys including this doll house, parking garage, airport, barn and many accessories. We've been buying and giving this brand for years and our kids love them all. The doll house is made from organic, recycled rubber wood and the paints have passed safety tests which means it's good for the environment and good for my children.
