How to spot if your squishy toy is fake after they’re urgently recalled over ‘serious’ health risk
Parents are being urged to double-check their children's squishy toys after counterfeit versions were recalled over fears they could pose a 'serious chemical risk'.
The warning comes after fake Squishy Dumplings, sold by Samsons Cash and Carry Ltd in Cardiff, were found to contain four times the legal UK limit of benzene, a chemical linked to cancer after prolonged exposure.
The viral toys have exploded in popularity thanks to social media, with children all over desperately trying to collect the ultra-rare glitter versions hidden inside mystery blind boxes.
But as demand has grown, so has the number of counterfeit products making their way onto the market.
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According to the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS), the recalled toys contained 20mg of benzene per kilogram in the outer layer, and the legal UK limit is 5mg per kilogram.
Benzene is a colourless liquid with a sweet smell that's commonly used in the manufacture of plastics, foams, dyes, detergents and solvents.
While it's used safely in industry under controlled conditions, exposure to higher levels can irritate the eyes, skin, nose and throat.
Long-term exposure has also been linked to acute myeloid leukaemia, acute non-lymphocytic leukaemia and other cancers, with the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifying benzene as carcinogenic to humans.
How to tell if your squishy toy is fake
If you're buying Squishy Dumplings or similar toys, there are a few warning signs that could help you avoid a counterfeit.
Check for UK safety markings
Legitimate toys sold in the UK should display either a UKCA or CE mark on the packaging, along with clear safety information, manufacturer details and age recommendations.
Look closely at the packaging
Spelling mistakes, missing safety warnings, or a lack of manufacturer information can all be signs that a product isn't genuine.
Parents should also be wary if there are no instructions explaining what to do if the toy leaks or becomes damaged.
Be suspicious of unusually low prices
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Experts recommend buying from trusted retailers rather than unknown online sellers or third-party marketplaces.
Trust your nose
A strong or unusual chemical smell could indicate the toy isn't safe with other red flags including products sold without packaging or toys that resemble food but don't include a 'do not eat' warning.
The latest recall comes just weeks after Glasgow City Council Trading Standards officers seized more than 5,900 counterfeit squishy toys from a warehouse over safety concerns.
Laura Doherty, councillor and city convener for Neighbourhood Services and Assets, said: "The items which have been recovered pose serious dangers to anyone using or playing with them."
"I would urge people when considering buying these popular toys to check that you are purchasing from a retailer you can trust and to check labels thoroughly."
Anyone who believes they've bought one of the recalled toys is advised to stop children using it and contact Samsons Cash and Carry Ltd for further information.
Rhiannon Ingle