The Office for Product Safety and Standards says: “Exposure to lead may cause a wide range of adverse effects, including damage to the kidneys, the circulatory system, and the developing brain. The unborn child and young children are at greater risk to lead exposure.”
The product recall is for a Pink Floral Heat Seal Droplet Bucket Handbag (2511-0235) and it was on sale for almost five months, from June 18 2025 to November 3 2025.
A statement on the River Island website says: “We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused and will, of course, offer you a full refund.”
They add: “As part of our ongoing commitment to product quality and customer safety, we have decided to recall this item after our due diligence testing identified higher than permitted levels of lead in the handle.
“While these areas are limited in size, they are considered accessible during use and therefore do not meet our strict safety standards.”
Recommended reading:
It is being recalled as “the product presents a serious chemical risk as the soldering on the metal chain contains an excess concentration of lead”.
The product does not meet the requirements of the REACH Regulations 2008.
The Office for Product Safety and Standards says: “We recommend that consumers stop using the product immediately and return it to River Island for a full refund. For both instore and online purchases, consumers are advised to return the product to: River Island Customer Service Parcels Freepost, MK17 8EW.”
