CPSC, Build-A-Bear Workshop Announce Recall of "Founding Bear" Stuffed Bears
Recall at a glance
- Recall number
- 03-070 (CPSC)
- Recall date
- January 16, 2003
- Category
- Toys and games
- Products
- Build-A-Bear Workshop "Founding Bear" stuffed bears
- Hazard
- Choking and ingestion hazard
- Hazard type
- Choking and ingestion
- Units
- About 80,000
- Last updated by CPSC
- May 15, 2025
What was recalled
The recall includes the "Founding Bear," and the "Founding Bear II." The "Founding Bear" is about 19 inches long, and the "Founding Bear II" is about 18 inches long. Both stuffed bears are chocolate brown and have cream-colored paws and snout. "OUR FOUNDING BEAR" is written on a cardboard tag that was originally attached to the bear's ear.
Is my product affected?
Compare your product with the details below, including model numbers where listed.
- Build-A-Bear Workshop "Founding Bear" stuffed bears · About 80,000 units
Photos from the recall notice


Where it was sold
Companies named in the notice: Build-A-Bear Workshop stores and web site sold these stuffed bears nationwide, between March 2000 and December 2002, for between $22 and $25.; Build-A-Bear Workshop, of St. Louis, Mo..
Injuries or incidents reported
Build-A-Bear Workshop has not received any reports of injuries resulting from these stuffed bears. This recall is being conducted to prevent possible injuries.
Consumer contact
For more information, call Build-A-Bear Workshop toll-free at (866) 236- 5683 between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's website at www.buildabear.com
Recall history and context
Since 2019 CPSC has recorded 156 recalls in the toys and games category, 71 recalls of them in the past 12 months.
Frequently asked questions
What was recalled?
Build-A-Bear Workshop "Founding Bear" stuffed bears (About 80,000 units). " The "Founding Bear" is about 19 inches long, and the "Founding Bear II" is about 18 inches long.
Why was it recalled?
CPSC lists the reason as: Choking and ingestion hazard.
What should I do if I own one?
Consumers should take these stuffed bears away from young children immediately. Build-A-Bear Workshop will exchange the bear for any other item they sell of equal value or provide a Build-A-Bear Workshop gift card. Consumers should return the stuffed bears to any Build-A-Bear Workshop store or contact the firm for instructions on mailing the bear.
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Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recall data, shown as published and last updated by CPSC on May 15, 2025. Details can change; the official notice is the authority. If your product may be recalled, stop and read the notice before deciding what to do. Terms and disclaimer.