Serious warning issued over viral squishy dumpling toys

An urgent recall has been issued over fake squishy dumpling toys, which can pose a ‘serious chemical risk’.

For those who are unfamiliar, the popular toys, which are manufactured in China, have become a viral sensation, with both children and adults rushing to collect all of the different colours.

The adorable ‘blind box’ collectibles are stress-ball type fidget toys, which are shaped like steamed bao buns.

However, as they’ve become more and more sought after, fakes and dupes have begun popping up in stores around the UK - some of which, parents have been warned, don’t meet industry standards.

Some of the fake dumplings have been found to present a ‘serious chemical risk’ as they contain a high concentration of the toxic chemical benzene.

The Government has issued an urgent recall for ‘Squeezy Dumplings’ sold at Samsons Cash and Carry in Cardiff, pulled it from shelves, and advised owners to stop using the product and keep it out of reach of children.

The squishy toys have surged in popularity and become a social media sensation (Getty Stock Image)

Benzene is a colourless, volatile liquid with a characteristic sweet odour that’s often used in major industrial manufacturing processes.

The recall explains: “The product presents a serious chemical risk because the outer layer contains an excess concentration of benzene.

“If inhaled, benzene can cause irritation to the eyes, nose and throat. Exposure to large amounts may also cause a burning feeling throughout the digestive tract and skin irritation.”

The legal limit for benzene in the UK is 5mg per kilogram, while these squishy toy dupes were found to contain 20mg per kilogram.

In the past, long-term occupational exposure to benzene has been shown to produce a range of diseases, such as a decrease in white blood cells, leukaemia and damage to DNA.

The chemical is also known to cause acute myeloid leukaemia/acute non-lymphocytic leukaemia and potentially other cancers in humans.

And the Cardiff store is not the first to be hit with a recall, as just last month Glasgow City Council Trading Standards officers seized more than 5,900 counterfeit squishies from a warehouse in the Tradeston area of the city.

The recall has warned parents to keep the fake toys out of reach of children (Gov.uk)

As per Metro, Swansea Council’s Trading Standards Officer Rhys Harries said: “These products are clearly attractive to children because they are being driven by online trends, but that does not mean they are safe.

“When a toy gives off a strong chemical smell and is missing basic safety information, that should ring alarm bells for parents and retailers alike.

“Our main concern is the risk posed to children if unsafe items end up in homes, school bags or play areas.”

How to spot if your squishy dumpling is fake

There are a number of ways you can identify if you’re dealing with a real squishy dumpling toy, or a dangerous counterfeit version.

Firstly, legitimate toys sold in the UK should always display either a UKCA or CE mark on the packaging, along with clear safety information, manufacturer details and age recommendations.

Experts also recommend you buy the toys from trusted retailers rather than unknown sellers, and check for any spelling mistakes or missing safety information.

Finally, a strong or unusual chemical smell could be another big red flag to indicate that the toy isn't safe.