Metallic cake powder recalled after young boy who inhaled product hospitalised

The consumer watchdog has recalled metallic cake decorating powders after a young boy inhaled the product and was hospitalised.

Gold Coast toddler Dustin Wildman suffered a life-threatening reaction after inhaling a metallic cake decorating powder and spent weeks in an induced coma requiring surgery to remove the substance from his lungs.

Doctors monitored inflammation in the 14-month-old’s lungs caused by the material, which solidified into a paste like substance after being inhaled.

Dustin was placed in intensive care after the substance caused severe respiratory distress and required surgical intervention.

Medical testing later confirmed the powder contained copper and zinc compounds, prompting questions over product labelling and its placement alongside edible decorating ingredients.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) recalled the product that has been sold at cake decorating stores nationwide since 2019.

The ACCC warned the products that come in shades of gold, silver and copper should only be used to decorate removable ornaments on cakes and are not supposed to be consumed.

“These cake decorating powders may contain copper and zinc dust which can be toxic if inhaled or ingested,” an ACCC spokesman said.

“Consumers risk serious harm if the powder is inhaled or ingested. An incident has occurred resulting in the hospitalisation of a young child.”

Authorities urged people to call Triple-0 if a person inhaled or ingested one of the cake decorating powders and had difficulty breathing.

“Stop using these products immediately and keep out of reach of children,” a spokesman said.

“Return to the place of purchase for a full refund.”

Consumers were urged to contact Crumb Australia for more information about the recall.