Ireland: Penneys recalls popular item over serious health risk

Retail chain Penneys has issued an urgent recall of a popular item due to a serious health hazard. The recalled item is Primark DTR Stitch SL 4pk Scented Highlighters, which have been pulled off the shelves due to high levels of restricted phthalates in the highlighter lids. Exposure to these chemicals may have serious health effects, especially in children, potentially damaging the reproductive system. In an alert issued on March 26, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) acknowledged the recall of the item, confirming that it was due to the presence of restricted phthalates over permitted limits in the tip of the lid. The affected product has been purchased by over 3000 customers between May 2024 and January 2025. They are advised to stop using the highlighters and keep them away from children. The product can be brought to any Penneys store for a full refund. No proof of purchase or receipt is needed. Penneys apologised for the recall, stating that the product did not meet its safety standards and represented a potential risk for customers.