Starbucks recalling 38,000 children's cups that can pose choking hazard

<br>WASHINGTON (AP) _ Starbucks Coffee Co. is recalling about 38,000 plastic children's cups because small pieces of plastic on them can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children. <br><br>The

Wednesday, May 28th 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

WASHINGTON (AP) _ Starbucks Coffee Co. is recalling about 38,000 plastic children's cups because small pieces of plastic on them can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children.

The Seattle-based company has received two reports of pieces of the tumbler cup's straw coming off when the straw is chewed. No injuries have been reported, but in one case a child choked on a detached piece of the straw, the Consumer Product Safety Commission said Wednesday.

The recalled cup is made of clear plastic in the shape of a bear with the words ``Bearista Bear'' printed on the front. The cup, sold in blue or green, has a screw-on lid in the shape of a bear's head, with a flexible straw.

Starbucks stores nationwide sold the cups this month and in April for about $7.

The government warned consumers to take the cups away from children immediately. Consumers can return the cups to any Starbucks location for a refund or can call the company at 1-800-235-2883 for more information.