March 27, 2008

Avon Products Recalls Plush Warming Polar Bears 

Name of Product: Cozy Warming Polar Bears

Units: About 113,000

Distributor: Avon Products Inc., of New York, N.Y.

Manufacturers: Haiyan Boai Gifts Factory, and Yangzhou Honesty Arts & Crafts Co. Ltd., of China

Hazard: The warming pouch inside the bear can overheat and ignite when heated in a microwave oven, posing a fire and burn hazard to consumers.

Description: The recalled white plush warming bear has a red hat and brown nose. It is about 17 inches long and comes with a buckwheat-filled pouch that is heated in a microwave oven and is inserted into an opening in the bear’s belly. “Avon Products” is printed on a white tag sewn onto the bear.

Sold exclusively by: Avon independent sales representatives and at www.avon.com from July 2007 through February 2008 for about $13 when sold alone, or as part of a gift set that sold for about $100.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled warming bear and return the buckwheat-filled pouch for a full refund. Avon is directly contacting consumers who purchased the warming bear.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact Avon toll-free at (877) 217-0916 between 6 a.m. and midnight ET Monday through Saturday, and on Sunday between 12 p.m. and midnight ET, or visit the firm’s Web site at www.avon.com