Canadian importers, particularly those of children’s toys and imitation jewellery, should be extra-vigilant when purchasing from China. Lured by China’s intensely fragmented manufacturing sector, where thousands of small operators outbid each other with low per-unit costs, Canadian companies have been faced with recalls when the jewellery they imported was found to have high lead levels.

One study of Chinese-manufactured jewelry indicated it contained recycled lead acid batteries. Professor Doug Perovic (MSE) found high levels of antimony in such jewellery, pointing to a chemical link to car batteries.

Follow the link to read the full story as reported by Canwest News Service.