A recall has been issued for a version of a popular children’s toy due to excessive levels of a toxic chemical.
‘Squeezy Dumplings’ toys have been recalled by Cardiff-based Samsons Cash and Carry Ltd, with the government’s Office for Product Safety and Standards saying they pose a “serious” chemical risk of “excessive levels of benzene”.
The toys, which are soft plastic polymer dumpling shapes found inside basket-style pots, are manufactured in China.
The recall notice states: “The product presents a serious chemical risk because the outer layer contains an excess concentration of benzene (20mg/kg).
“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.
“Improvements are also required to product labelling and marking.”
The toys have been described as the “latest viral trend for kids”, with the original safe versions distributed by RMS/Crazy Fun.
Their success comes from the combination of two internet crazes: blind unboxing toys and squishies.
However, it is the imitation versions which are said to be potentially harmful.
The recalled product does not meet the requirements of the Toys (Safety) Regulations Act, the government said, with owners advised to stop using it and to keep it out of reach of children.
Identifying it could prove difficult, however, as no batch numbers or product identifiers are provided on the product.
Benzene is used as a starting material for a wide range of chemicals which feed into major industrial manufacturing processes, including plastics, foams, dyes, detergents, solvents, and insecticides.
Before its toxic nature was realised, benzene was previously used in cosmetics, domestic solvents and in the process of decaffeinating coffee, according to the UK Health and Security Agency (UKHSA). Its use in such consumer products or processes is no longer permitted.
Benzene also carries a risk of cancer if exposed to it over a long-term basis.
Regarding the chemical’s cancer risk, the UKHSA says: “Benzene is known to cause acute myeloid leukaemia/acute non-lymphocytic leukaemia and potentially other cancers in humans.
“The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified benzene as carcinogenic to humans (group 1).”
