Baby and Child Safety: A Closer Look at the Industry
As a soon-to-be first-time mom herself, PJ Randhawa, along with NBC 5 Responds Consumer Investigative Producer and new mom, Leigh Lesniak, are taking a deep dive into the massive, multi-billion dollar baby and child business industry to explore the critical aspects of infant and child safety.
Understanding the Risks
- Lead, phthalates, cadmium, and formaldehyde in inexpensive, popular products
- Dangerous products still available for purchase online and in stores, even after recalls
- Home remedies for babies may contain toxic chemicals
- Potentially harmful levels of heavy metals in baby formula
- Dangerous toys, resulting in significant injuries and toy-related deaths
The Safe Start Series
The “Safe Start” series, airing on NBC 5 News at 6 a.m. CT, will feature segments on several key topics, including the dangers of inexpensive, yet popular baby and child products, banned products that are still being sold in stores and online, the potentially-severe health risks surrounding baby home remedies, the important warnings linked to baby formulas, and how to be better educated on the dangers of child toys.
Expert Insights
“Becoming a new parent is one of life’s most exciting moments, but it also comes with a lot of questions,” said Sally Ramirez, Senior Vice President of News, NBC Chicago/Telemundo Chicago. “As a soon-to-be, first-time mom herself, PJ, along with our Consumer Investigative Producer and new mom, Leigh Lesniak, did the important research, spoke with experts and got the answers to help parents decide what’s best for their children.”
Key Topics
- MONDAY, APRIL 28: Dangers of Cheap Baby/Child Products
- TUESDAY, APRIL 29: Banned & Recalled Baby Products Easily Available Online and in Stores
- WEDNESDAY, APRIL 30: Beware: Home Remedies for Babies
- THURSDAY, MAY 1: Infant Baby Formula Warning
- FRIDAY, MAY 2: Dangerous Toys
Investigative Finds
| Product | Found Contaminants | Recall Status |
| Lead-infused baby bottles | Lead, phthalates, cadmium, and formaldehyde | Not recalled |
| Toy with choking hazard | Small parts, loose threads | Recalled |
| Raw honey | Botulism risk | Not recalled, but advised to avoid |
Expert Advice
“The key is to be informed, to do your research, and to take steps to minimize exposure to toxins and hazards.” This advice comes from a local safety expert who spoke with the Responds team.
Take Action
- Be informed about the products you buy for your child
- Read product labels and look for certifications
- Check for recalls and warnings
- Use safe toys and products
Finding Resources
- Monday, April 28 at 6 a.m. CT
- Tuesday, April 29 at 6 a.m. CT
- Thursday, May 1 at 6 a.m.