A growing safety crackdown across the United Kingdom is targeting counterfeit and non-compliant “squishy dumpling” toys after Trading Standards officers in Wales seized products they said contained a possible cancer-causing chemical.
The warning comes as the viral collectibles gain popularity in the United States, with demand fueling sales through social media-driven trends and online marketplaces.
“Fake versions of genuine products manufactured by legitimate business such as the NeeDoh brand, were also reported,” it stated, adding that “many of these illegal toys often look like food, such as jelly cubes, butter blocks or steamed buns, which could cause choking or ingestion hazards to small children.”
Parents Complain About Petrol-Like Smell from Toys
Swansea Council Trading Standards officers began investigating after receiving complaints from parents about a strong petrol-like smell coming from squishy dumpling toys, according to Swansea Bay News. Officers examined multiple products and found some lacked required safety information, including instructions explaining what to do if the toy leaks or is punctured, compliance markings, and the name and address of a UK-based responsible person such as an importer or manufacturer.Swansea Bay News reported that products were seized from several retailers and sent for laboratory analysis. Testing identified volatile organic compounds, including ethylbenzene, styrene, and xylene isomers. The report said the chemicals were associated with the strong odor reported by consumers.
Breathing high levels can cause dizziness and irritation of the eyes and throat, while animal studies have linked lower-level exposure to hearing effects and kidney damage. The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified ethylbenzene as a possible human carcinogen.
Short-term exposure can cause irritation, fatigue, and dizziness, while long-term exposure may affect the nervous system. Styrene has also been classified as a possible human carcinogen.
“These products are clearly attractive to children because they are being driven by online trends, but that does not mean they are safe,” Swansea Council Trading Standards Officer Rhys Harries told Swansea Bay News.
“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,” Harries said. “Our main concern is the risk posed to children if unsafe items end up in homes, school bags, or play areas.”
In the United States, squishy dumpling toys have become a popular collectible item among children, with some retailers limiting purchases because of demand.