U.S. retail giant Wal-Mart announced that it is recalling Miley Cyrus-brand jewelry after learning it contains high levels of cadmium — a toxic metal known to cause kidney failure. The Miley Cyrus & Max Azria jewelry which was sold in Wal-Mart stores across the country has been` deemed unsafe due to the carcinogenic properties of cadmium, a statement on Wal-Mart’s website said. The jewelry is especially dangerous for children because they are more likely to touch their hands with the product and put their hands in their mouth. The cadmium in the jewelry can also be absorbed into the skin.
The Miley Cyrus & Max Azria line was not for children. It is sold in Wal-Marts ladies apparel section and it was designed for and marketed to older consumers. The giant retailer says it is ”possible that a few younger consumers may seek it out in stores.” Wal-Mart has removed all of the jewelry from shelves while it investigates, the statement added.