Feds Launch Probe for Toxics in Novelty Drinking Glasses

"LOS ANGELES — Federal regulators launched an investigation Monday into lead levels in drinking glasses depicting comic book and movie characters, declaring that the items are subject to strict standards for "children's products."

Testing commissioned by The Associated Press revealed that the glasses contained lead up to 1,000 times the federal limit for children's products. The items contained lesser amounts of the more-toxic metal cadmium.

In response to word of the investigation by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, importer Vandor LLC of Utah said it would voluntarily recall the glasses, which feature colorful designs depicting the likes of Superman, Wonder Woman and characters from 'The Wizard of Oz,' including Dorothy and the Tin Man."

Justin Pritchard reports for the Associated Press November 23, 2010.