Sainsbury’s and Matalan have issued an urgent recall for a popular Christmas stocking filler due to a serious chemical risk.
The Beeline Belly Bar, a flower-themed piece of body jewellery, has been found to contain dangerous levels of nickel that could cause severe allergic reactions.
Both retailers have warned customers about the potential health risks when the jewellery is used in piercings.
The Office for Product Safety and Standards highlighted that the elevated nickel content poses a particular danger when in prolonged contact with skin.
Sainsbury’s has announced the recall
PA
Customers are being advised to immediately stop using the product and return it to stores for a full refund.
“The product presents a chemical risk as elevated levels of nickel were found,” warned the Office for Product Safety and Standards.
The agency explained that nickel is a known “skin sensitiser” that can trigger allergic reactions when it comes into direct and prolonged contact with the skin. The recall comes after follow-up checks revealed the nickel value in parts of the belly bar exceeded legal limits.
The UK Health and Security Agency noted that stringent controls are typically in place to prevent nickel exposure through jewellery.
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The Beeline Belly Bar
Customers have been advised that any contact with nickel-containing items should be “ceased immediately” if a red skin rash develops.
The UKHSA issued a detailed warning about the specific health risks associated with nickel exposure.
“Skin exposure to nickel or its compounds can lead to skin irritation and allergic contact dermatitis (an immunological reaction leading to skin sensitisation expressed as reddening/rash on the skin),” the agency stated.
The UKHSA explained that while nickel-related skin problems were common in the past, new regulations have helped reduce exposure.
“Nickel contact dermatitis was often seen in individuals who wore nickel containing jewellery in the past, but stringent controls are now in place to ensure that this is no longer a significant route of exposure,” they added.
The agency emphasised that anyone experiencing symptoms should stop wearing the affected jewellery immediately.
Beeline issued a statement emphasising that product safety is their “top priority”. “In order to guarantee the greatest possible protection, we have decided to remove the belly bar from sale,” the company said.
No receipt will be required for a full refund of the purchase price. Customers with additional questions are advised to contact Beeline directly via email.
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused,” the company added in their statement.
