Taco Bell Corp. Announces Voluntary Recall Of Promotional Items

PRODUCT: Approximately 500,000 Lowly Worm and Huckle Cat finger puppets and 80,000 Rocky & Bullwinkle inflatable balls distributed free by Taco Bell restaurants. The finger puppets were distributed free in Taco Bell Kid's Meals from January 25 through March 28, 1993 and the inflatable balls were distributed free in Taco Bell Kid's Meals from March 29 through March 31, 1993.

PROBLEM: Taco Bell received complaints that the finger puppets became stuck on the tongues of three children; and several complaints that blowing up the balls caused slight dizziness.

WHAT TO DO: Return both products to any Taco Bell location and receive a complimentary original Taco. Consumers with questions may call toll-free at 1-800-374-8220.

WASHINGTON, DC -- In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), Taco Bell Corp. of Irvine, CA announced a voluntary recall of items recently distributed in two Kid's Meal promotions by Taco Bell restaurants throughout the United States.

"The Busy World of Richard Scarry" finger puppets, Lowly Worm and Huckle Cat, were recalled, as well as Rocky & Bullwinkle inflatable balls. Taco Bell received complaints that the finger puppets had become stuck on the tongues of three children and several complaints that blowing up the balls caused slight dizziness.

A spokesperson for Taco Bell said, "Taco Bell has elected to recall both items voluntarily from our stores to eliminate any possibility of future customer discomfort and inconvenience. We want to continue to ensure the comfort and safety of our customers."

According to the manufacturer, both products were tested in accordance with CPSC regulations. Approximately 500,000 finger puppets were distributed free in Taco Bell Kid's Meals from January 25 through March 28, 1993. About 80,000 inflatable balls, also free in Kid's Meals, were distributed from March 29 through March 31, 1993.

Consumers may return both products to any Taco Bell location and receive a complimentary original Taco. A toll-free consumer hotline has been established at 1-800-374-8220 to respond to consumer inquiries.