Some popular squishy toys have triggered burn alerts and regulatory actions in various nations, with Canadian authorities acknowledging numerous reports but not confirming any specific health or safety hazards. These soft, small toys are available in different shapes, such as cubes, spheres, and food-like forms like dumplings and sticks of butter. Their squishy texture is a key selling point for sensory play toys sold through online platforms, discount stores, and other retailers.
Recently, Cornwall Trading Standards in southwest England cautioned that certain squishy toys they examined did not meet U.K. safety standards. Separately, Hull City Council in northeast England confiscated and disposed of toys from local stores due to elevated benzene levels, a known carcinogen. Excessive exposure to benzene can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, skin problems, and potential harm if ingested. These actions in England followed a recall of Squeezy Dumplings by the U.K.’s Office for Product Safety and Standards.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reiterated a warning about severe burn risks linked to fake and counterfeit squishy toys that do not adhere to U.S. safety regulations. Shipments of non-compliant squishy toys have been intercepted at U.S. ports. In Australia, Schyling, the maker of NeeDoh toys, has reportedly requested the Australian Border Force to intercept fake versions of their products.
Health Canada has received 36 reports related to squishy dumpling toys from April 23 to Aug. 24. These reports include complaints of odors, product sales without odor or injury mentions, and instances of toys exploding with associated injuries. Health Canada has not found any violations of health or safety regulations nor confirmed any specific risks from these toys. Amazon Canada stated that they proactively removed certain squishy dumpling toys due to safety concerns.
Toy manufacturers are not mandated to disclose ingredients, raising concerns about potential harmful chemicals. Miriam Diamond, an environmental chemist at the University of Toronto, highlighted the lack of transparency in toy ingredients and urged manufacturers to be more vigilant.
Consumer Reports emphasized that safety concerns extend beyond counterfeit products to include items purchased directly from retailers. The U.S. Product Safety Commission advises families to keep affected toys away from heat sources, inspect them regularly for leaks, and use caution when handling burst toys to prevent direct skin contact. Diamond recommended decluttering and sticking to simpler toys and following recommended age limits for toy use. NeeDoh and Squishy Dumpling did not provide comments upon request.