A metallic powder used for decorating cakes has been urgently recalled after an Aussie toddler suffered a reaction to it that caused him to be hospitalised.
Dustin “Dusty” Wildman inhaled the powder during recent birthday celebrations, but it stuck to his lungs, and he had trouble breathing.
The 14-month-old was rushed to Queensland Children’s Hospital, where he was placed in an induced coma and underwent emergency surgery.
Crumb Australia Pty Ltd issued a recall for five different coloured powders in the Creative Cake Decorating range on Monday.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) revealed that while the powder is designed to decorate cakes, it’s only meant to be applied to ornaments that can be removed, as it’s not meant for consumption.
“These cake decorating powders may contain copper and zinc dust, which can be toxic if inhaled or ingested,” the consumer watchdog said in a statement.
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What do I need to know about the Crumb Australia powder recall?
The recall has affected the following colours for:
It’s been on sale since August 2019 and was pulled from shelves on May 6 this year.
It was manufactured in Australia and sold in cake and baking stores nationwide, as well as online.
These metallic powders have been recalled after a young boy was rushed to hospital.
(ACCC)
The ACCC has urged people to “stop using these products immediately” and keep them out of reach of children.
You can return them to your place of purchase for a full refund.
Consumers can contact Crumb Australia for more information on 0458 686 858 or email creativecakedecoratingau@gmail.com.
If you suspect someone has inhaled or ingested the powder and they are having trouble breathing, call 000.
You can also contact the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26, which is available 24 hours a day.
How is Dustin Wildman recovering?
The young boy’s family said last week that his “life-threatening” situation has now improved.
He spent two weeks in an induced coma, but is now breathing unaided.
His mother, Kate Robinson, said the latest developments have brought relief after days of uncertainty.
“Our beautiful boy is awake and alert, playing and smiling,” Ms Robinson said.
Dustin is slowly recovering in hospital after the terrifying incident.
(GoFundMe)
“This morning he had all breathing assistance taken out and is breathing completely on his own.
“He just has the feeding tube in while we try and get some food in orally.”
While Dusty is no longer reliant on breathing support, doctors are still monitoring inflammation in his lungs caused by the material, which solidified into a paste-like substance after being inhaled.
Ms Robinson said he is beginning to regain more strength, though his voice remains affected.
“He’s trying to talk but still has a very raspy voice,” she said.
“We’re hoping he proves the doctors wrong and there’s no permanent damage.”
-with Newswire
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