5,900 fake squishy toys seized by Trading Standards in Glasgow
Parents are being warned the counterfeit versions of the popular toys can contain dangerous chemicals
Nearly 6,000 counterfeit ‘squishy’ toys have been seized by Trading Standards in Glasgow.
Officers targeted a warehouse on Commerce Street on the south side on Thursday June 4th, and confiscated around 5,900 of the toys.
The toys, known for their soft and squeezable texture, have become a viral sensation on TikTok recently. They are typically manufactured from polyurethane foam or gel materials.
They often resemble a dumpling and come in a dim sum box, although there are various other designs.
However, their increased popularity has led to a surge in counterfeit products that have not passed health and safety regulations.
These unsafe imitations can contain dangerous substances like phthalates, solvents, and formaldehyde, emitting strong chemical odours.
Safety hazards include skin irritation, nausea, headaches, and potential respiratory issues.
The toys also pose a choking risk to young children, as many do not provide age warnings, and might fail flammability standards.
According to the government’s Office for Product Safety & Standards, each toy costs approximately £71 in health and safety risks, property damage, business losses, and consumer inconvenience.
Intervention "prevented over £400,000 worth of harm to consumers and businesses."
With around 5,900 toys confiscated, this recovery is estimated to have saved £419,000.
Trading Standards teams will continue inspecting warehouses around the city.
Councillor Laura Doherty, City Convener for Neighbourhood Services and Assets, highlighted the dangers during a statement.
"The items which have been recovered pose serious dangers to anyone using or playing with them,” Cllr Doherty said.
She urged buyers to ensure purchases come from trustworthy retailers and to thoroughly check product labels.
Shoppers urged to check safety labels and only buy from trusted traders
Shoppers should look for UKCA/CE marking, manufacturer details, age restrictions, safety warnings, and usage instructions.
Items missing these features are likely counterfeit and unsafe.
Councillor Doherty added: “This intervention prevented over £400,000 worth of harm to consumers and businesses.
“Trading Standards will continue to monitor the supply and distribution of counterfeit goods through targeted inspections and enforcement activity, particularly within lower-cost retail sectors and non-traditional supply chains.”