Australia’s consumer regulator has warned families to stop using five coloured powders sold in the Creative Cake Decorating range after a 14-month-old boy inhaled the product during recent birthday celebrations and ended up in hospital with breathing trouble.

Crumb Australia Pty Ltd recalled the powders on Monday after Dustin “Dusty” Wildman’s family said the powder stuck to his lungs, leaving him unable to breathe properly. He was rushed to Queensland Children’s Hospital, placed in an induced coma and underwent emergency surgery.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission said the powders were designed to decorate cake ornaments rather than be eaten, and that they were not meant for consumption. It said the products may contain copper and zinc dust, which can be toxic if inhaled or ingested. The regulator urged people to stop using the products immediately and keep them out of reach of children.

The recalled items were manufactured in Australia and sold nationwide in cake and baking stores as well as online. They had been on sale since August 2019 and were pulled from shelves on May 6 this year. Consumers can return them to the place of purchase for a full refund.

The case has sharpened concern around a product that could look harmless on a shop shelf but caused a medical emergency in a toddler. Dusty Wildman’s family said last week that his life-threatening situation had improved, a sign the boy is recovering after the worst of the ordeal. Anyone with the powders can call the recall information line on 13 11 26, available 24 hours a day.