Thermometers recalled due to reports of ‘severe skin burns’: FDA

BearCare Inc. has issued a recall for its rechargeable Walnut Wearable Smart Thermometer due to safety concerns.

The Food and Drug Administration announced the voluntary recall on May 12 due to potential injuries from using the device.

The company pulled the product “after receiving consumer complaints of minor to severe skin burns and skin irritation in children that used the product,” according to the FDA.

The Walnut Thermometer is an over-the-counter rechargeable device that monitors the chest temperature of children up to 6 years old.

It has a silicone exterior resembling a cartoon penguin.

It was sold and distributed from December 2022 to April 2023 through Amazon.com, Walmart.com and walnutcares.com.

Anyone who owns a device is urged to look for corrosion near the smart sensor on the back of the device, diminished battery life or connectivity issues with the Walnut App.

In addition, the FDA said to watch for a warming or heat sensation near the sensor, as well as redness and irritation on the skin.

The health body is urging anyone handling the device to be careful with chemical leakage, as that could result in burns.

Extra caution should also be taken if a faulty device has been used by a child, with caretakers encouraged to check other areas of their body — like the mouth and eyes — in case the corrosive fluids spread or were swallowed.

The FDA said to seek medical care if anyone was exposed to moisture coming from the device or experienced any symptoms related to device failure.

BearCare advised anyone with a Walnut Thermometer to immediately stop using the product.

 Consumers may contact recall@walnutcares.com for recall advice.