Hundreds of unsafe squishy toys seized in Reading
Parents urged to check safety markings on children's toys
Hundreds of potentially unsafe children's 'squishy' toys have been seized from shops in Reading this week.
Concerns have been raised by Reading Trading Standards that the toys may not comply with UK product safety laws.
Trading Standards officers have confiscated over 320 popular sensory toys, including several gel-filled ones known as 'squishy dumplings'.
The officers noted a strong chemical odour emanating from some of the toys.
It was discovered that several products lacked essential safety information on their packaging.
Imitation versions of popular products, like Squishy Dumplings and NeeDoh, were found to be missing legally required traceability information, the manufacturer's or importer's details, and UKCA or CE markings that demonstrate safety compliance.
Trading Standards urge consumers to be cautious when purchasing squishy toys and other novelty items.
Customers are advised to ensure products display the appropriate UKCA or CE marking, include the manufacturer's and UK importer's details, and contain relevant safety warnings and instructions.
Products without this information, or those with a strong chemical smell, may pose a safety risk and should be avoided.
While these toys may seem harmless, those not meeting the required safety standards can pose risks to children.
Trading Standards also advise consumers to discontinue use of toys that leak, split, or become damaged, and to never heat, microwave, or tamper with squishy toys.
Enforcement visits are ongoing across Reading.
Retailers are reminded of their legal responsibility to ensure all toys supplied and offered for sale comply with UK toy and product safety legislation.
Non-compliant products may be seized, and businesses could face further enforcement action for breaches.
Cllr Finn McGoldrick, Lead Member for Environmental Services and Community Safety, said:
"Parents and carers should be able to trust that the toys they buy for their children are safe.
"These product seizures demonstrate our ongoing commitment to protecting consumers and removing potentially dangerous products from the marketplace.
"During the summer holidays, I would ask people to remain vigilant and make sure any toys purchased are from reputable retailers, that you check for the appropriate safety markings, and report any concerns about unsafe products to our Trading Standards team."