Cabbage Patch Dolls Under Investigation for Hair-Chewing Incident

Reports of children's hair getting caught in the mouths of Cabbage Patch Snacktime Kids dolls have sparked an investigation by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The commission has confirmed 35 incidents where children's hair was caught in the dolls' mouths, but fortunately, no serious injuries have been reported. Mattel Inc., the manufacturer of the dolls, is working with the CPSC to address the issue.

Key Takeaways:

• The CPSC is investigating reports of children's hair getting caught in the mouths of Cabbage Patch Snacktime Kids dolls, with 35 incidents confirmed.
• Mattel Inc., the manufacturer of the dolls, claims the product has passed all safety tests by the CPSC, but issues may arise when children insert plastic food into the doll's mouth.
• Parents have reported that their children's hair or fingers have gotten caught in the doll's mouth, and in some cases, the doll's chewing mechanism did not stop even when the plastic food was removed.
• The only way to stop the doll's chewing is to remove the backpack from its back, but this information is not included in the product directions.
• Commissioner Mark Schiffrin of Connecticut's consumer protection agency has recommended an advisory label for Cabbage Patch dolls that have caused injuries.
• Mattel has distributed approximately 700,000 Snacktime Kids dolls since August.

Statistics:

• 35 incidents reported of children's hair getting caught in the mouths of Cabbage Patch Snacktime Kids dolls.
• 700,000 Snacktime Kids dolls distributed by Mattel since August.
• No serious injuries reported in relation to the doll's hair-chewing incident.

Sources:

• United Press International, "Cabbage Patch Dolls Under Fire" (December 30)