A Metallic Cake Decorating Powder Recall
A metallic cake decorating powder has been recalled nationwide after a Queensland toddler ended up in an induced coma following inhalation of the substance. The product, branded as ‘Creative’, has been on the market since 2019 but has now been identified as containing copper and zinc, which can be toxic if inhaled or ingested.
All five colors of the lustre dust are included in the recall. This incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of the product and its potential risks to children.
The Incident Involving a Young Child
Gold Coast toddler Dusty Wildman spent days in a coma at Queensland Children’s Hospital after he inhaled the cake decorating dust while at home with his mother on May 1. His mother, Katie Robinson, is a professional baker who had been working on a Bluey first birthday cake when Dusty managed to open a small container of the powder.
Dusty became unwell almost immediately, starting to cough and showing signs of distress. Robinson shared that the dust contained copper, which does not dissolve in blood and accumulated in Dusty’s lungs. Despite the initial severity of the situation, Dusty has since come off his breathing tube and is making a good recovery. However, doctors have warned that there could still be long-term health impacts.
The Product Label and Safety Concerns
The label on the cake dust stated that the product is “for use on removable cake parts” and that it is non-toxic. However, Robinson pointed out that the product was placed on shelves next to edible items, which may have contributed to the confusion regarding its safe use.
The supplier Crumb Australia had already removed the product from shelves and contacted all stockists before the official recall by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). The ACCC has urged anyone who has purchased the product to stop using it immediately, keep it away from children, and return it to the place of purchase for a refund.
Locations Where the Product Was Sold
The ‘Creative’ metallic cake powder has been available at various locations between 2019 and May 2026. These include:
- Bake & Deco
- Cake Bake Decorate
- Cake Deco Supplies
- Cake Tinz & Thingz
- Cakers Paradise
- Cakers Warehouse
- Choice Cakes
- Chrissie’s Cake and Supplies (in the UK)
- Cupid’s Cake Decorating Supplies (since closed)
- Embellished Cakes
- Gold Coast Cake Supplies
- Hollywood Cake Decorations
- Latorta
- One Stop Cake Decorations
- Parties Plus More
- Silver Stars
- Sugartime
Important Warnings and Recommendations
This recall serves as a critical reminder of the importance of checking product labels and understanding the potential risks associated with household items, especially those that may be accessible to children. Parents and caregivers are advised to remain vigilant and ensure that such products are stored safely out of reach of young ones.
The ACCC’s actions highlight the need for continuous monitoring of consumer products and the importance of prompt recalls when safety issues are identified. Consumers are encouraged to stay informed about product recalls and follow the guidelines provided by regulatory authorities.
By taking these precautions, individuals can help prevent similar incidents from occurring and ensure the safety of their families.
