Consumer Council Warns Parents Over Imported “Music Lollipops”

The Consumer Council of Fiji has issued an urgent safety warning to parents and guardians over imported novelty products known as “Music Lollipops,” which have reportedly gained popularity following their circulation on social media.

The Council is advising consumers not to purchase or give the products to children, citing concerns over the electronic components contained inside the lollipop stick.

According to the Council, the product contains a 3.7-volt lithium polymer battery enclosed within a plastic casing that can reportedly be opened by children, potentially exposing internal components and small parts.

The Council warned that damaged or exposed lithium polymer batteries may pose serious health and safety risks, particularly if the contents are swallowed or come into contact with the mouth.

While the product packaging reportedly carries a warning that it is unsuitable for children under three years of age, the Council says the potential hazards could affect older children as well.

Children may be at risk of choking on small components or damaging the casing by biting the product.

Consumer Council of Fiji Chief Executive Officer Seema Shandil urged parents and guardians to prioritise children’s safety over novelty products promoted online.

“The safety of our children must take priority over novel marketing trends,” Shandil said.

She also urged retailers to carefully examine products before importing or placing them on sale and to ensure that consumer safety remains a priority.

The Council is working with relevant enforcement authorities to determine measures to remove the product from store shelves and prevent it from remaining on the local market.

Consumers who already have the products at home are being advised to keep them away from children and dispose of them safely.