Universal International, Inc. Recalls Bib-To-Bowl Pacifiers

WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Universal International, Inc., New Hope, MN is voluntarily recalling approximately 135,000 pacifiers, model numbers 1852045, 1852037 and, 1854645, because of small parts that could pose a fatal asphyxiation hazard to young children. The potentially hazardous pacifiers were initially identified by the Food and Drug Administration.

When the CPSC tested pacifier models 1852045 and 1854645 in accordance with regulations under the Federal Hazardous Substances Act, each failed to comply with performance or warning label requirements. Universal International, Inc. voluntarily included model number 1852037 in the recall. The pacifiers are plastic and are packaged in a rack cardboard blister pack labeled in part "No. 1852045, 1854645, or 1852037 bib to bowl Sterilized Pacifier *** Birth to 24 Months, Imported by Red Carpet Distribution, Inc., Willowdale, Ontario, M2J 1R4, Made in Hong Kong."

The pacifiers were sold in retail stores in Puerto Rico, California, and on the East Coast from May 1989 to June 1990 for approximately $1.00 each.

Neither the CPSC nor Universal International, Inc. is aware of any injuries involving this product. This voluntary recall is being conducted to prevent the possibility of injury.

Consumers are urged to take these pacifiers away from young children immediately and return them to the store where purchased for a refund of the purchase price. Consumers with questions about this recall may contact Universal International, Inc. at 1-800-634-8349 or write the firm at 5000 Winnetka Ave., N., New Hope, MN 55428. In Minnesota call 1-800-533-1169.

The CPSC's mission is to protect the public from unreasonable risks of injury and death associated with consumer products. The CPSC is the Federal agency responsible for consumer product safety. Some 15,000 different types of products fall within the Commission's jurisdiction and each year these products are involved in an estimated 30 million injuries and 22,000 deaths.