The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has issues an urgent recall for metallic cake decorating powders after a Gold Coast toddler was hospitalised.

Fourteen-month-old Dustin Wildman spent weeks in an induced coma after inhaling a metallic cake decorating powder, and had to undergo surgery to remove the substance from his lungs.

According to news.com.au the Creative Cake Decorating dust solidified into a paste-like substance after being inhaled, resulting in severe respiratory distress. Medical testing later confirmed the powder contained both copper and zinc compounds, prompting questions over product labeling and its placement alongside edible decorating ingredients.

The ACCC made the move to recall the product, which has been sold at cake decorating stores nationwide since 2019. The product is available in shades of gold, silver and copper, and is meant to only be used to decorate removable objects on cakes. It’s not meant to be consumed.

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

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

“Stop using these products immediately  and keep out of reach of children. Return to the place of purchase for a full refund.”

Dustin’s mother, baker Katie Robinson, had been making a first birthday cake when Dustin found the canister and successfully opened it. Katie told 9News that Dustin became unwell almost immediately and began to cough and became “really distressed”.

Consumers are being urged to contact supplier Crumb Australia for more information about the recall. All five colours of the dust are included in the recall.