Sainsbury’s and Matalan have issued an urgent recall of the Beeline Belly Bar, a flower-themed belly-button piercing accessory, after it was found to pose a “serious chemical risk” due to high levels of nickel. The popular product, often sold as a stocking filler, was found to contain nickel in excess of legal limits, a metal known to cause allergic reactions.
Both retailers issued a joint warning, advising customers that wearing the belly bar could trigger allergic reactions, with a particular risk for those with piercings. The prolonged contact with skin increases the likelihood of irritation. “The nickel content exceeds the legal limits,” a Beeline spokesperson explained.
The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) confirmed the findings, stating that the product presents a chemical risk due to the elevated nickel levels. The OPSS highlighted that nickel is a “skin sensitiser” and prolonged exposure can cause allergic reactions, including contact dermatitis.
The UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA) echoed these concerns, emphasizing that excessive exposure to nickel could result in skin irritation and allergic contact dermatitis. This condition causes reddening and rashes on the skin, which can be particularly concerning for individuals with sensitive skin.
Despite stringent EU regulations that have reduced nickel exposure in recent years, the incident underscores the importance of strict adherence to safety standards. The UKHSA has urged consumers to cease using the product immediately if symptoms such as redness or rash develop.
Beeline, the supplier of the product, has issued a formal apology to customers and removed the item from sale to “guarantee the greatest possible protection” for consumers. A company spokesperson stated that follow-up checks revealed that a part of the belly bar exceeded the legal nickel limit.
Customers are advised to return the product for a full refund, even without a receipt. Both retailers assured buyers that product safety remains a top priority and encouraged those with concerns to reach out directly for further information.
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