Candy-shaped Christmas decorations ‘illegal’

A UK-wide recall of Christmas decorations resembling sweets has been launched after they were deemed too dangerous for kids and therefore illegal under EU law.

London-based firm O Widmann and Company – a seasonal gifts importer – has been forced remove its products imitating sweets, like lollipops and candy-striped rock, from the market.

Councils across the country have warned people to be cautious of Christmas decorations that imitate food products because of the dangers they pose to the safety of young children in terms of suffocation, poisoning, perforation or obstruction of the digestive system if eaten.

The past couple of years has seen a surge in the popularity of imitation cupcakes, sweets and other baked products, East Riding of Yorkshire Council said.

Trading standards officers have been inspecting Christmas retail outlets nationwide to seize products that breach EU trading laws.

Such items were discovered at garden centres in Hull and removed from sale immediately and submitted for testing.

Customers at O Widmann and Company are now being offered a full refund.

“I would urge people to think twice before using any decorations which could be mistaken for food. They present a serious risk to anyone, especially children, if they are accidentally chewed or swallowed and could potentially ruin someone’s Christmas celebrations,” said Cllr Jane Evison, East Riding of Yorkshire Council.

Colin Briggs, trading standards manager at the Council, said: “These types of product are illegal and must not be sold as they present a serious safety risk to children. I would urge all retailers of Christmas decorations to check their stock and remove any that look like food immediately. If you are in any doubt contact trading standards who will be able to advise you further.”

For more advice contact Consumer Direct on 08454 040506.

Recalled products

Lollipop tree garland has a product code L316552

The tree topper has a product code M251968

The star tree decoration has a product code L316554