'Immediate action required' as unsafe levels of carcinogenic metal found in popular jewellery

Missoma discovered the problem during routine quality checks at its factories.

The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) classified the "excess concentrations" of cadmium as a "serious chemical risk".

British shoppers who own these earrings have been urged to "stop using them immediately" as the contamination poses significant health concerns.

Highlighting the risks, the OPSS warned: "Cadmium accumulates in the body, can damage organs, and may cause cancer."

The Government's health guidance confirms these dangers, stating that "exposure to cadmium for a long period of time may result in damage to the kidneys and bones, and may cause cancer".

The International Agency for Research on Cancer has officially classified cadmium and its compounds as "carcinogenic in humans".

Warning customers that "immediate action [is] required", Missoma stated: "Testing has shown that these pieces may contain a low level of the metal cadmium, which is in excess of the allowed level of 100ppm.

"Cadmium is commonly present in jewellery and, while we understand that it does not pose any immediate safety risks in the levels identified, it can be toxic if ingested by young children and/or cause adverse health effects through skin exposure over a long period of time."

Thanking shoppers for their cooperation and understanding, the company added: "Your wellbeing is our highest priority and we always act with the utmost caution."

Affected customers can return their earrings free of charge for either a full refund or replacement.

The company advised people to stop wearing the affected items straight away and package them up away from children until it can be returned.

To process returns, customers should visit Missoma's Product Recall Request page. The company promises to resolve the issue "promptly and seamlessly" for all affected shoppers.

Cadmium

Cadmium is an element that is widely distributed in the Earth’s crust (soil and rocks), air, and water.

The Government's health guidance reveals that food and cigarette smoke are the biggest sources of cadmium exposure for most people in the UK.

Cereals, vegetables, and potatoes are the main dietary sources, though offal and seafood contain higher concentrations.

When breathed in at high levels, cadmium can cause a metallic taste, breathing difficulties, chest pain, and flu-like symptoms.

Swallowing the metal can irritate the digestive system, causing nausea, and diarrhoea. Direct skin contact may cause irritation.

"In severe cases, exposure can lead to lung damage extensive fluid loss, multiple organ failure and death," GOV.UK warned.

However, it's important to note that levels of cadmium in the environment are "typically not high enough to cause such effects".

Children face similar risks to adults when exposed to cadmium.

Anyone with health concerns about exposure should contact their GP or NHS 111 for guidance.