Warning over toxic squishy toys sold in Trafford
Parents being warning about harmful substances inside the 'Steamed Buns'
Trafford Council is alerting families to the dangers of unregulated 'squishy dumpling' toys that are being sold in convenience stores across the borough and online.
These colourful toys, known as Steamed Bun novelties, have gained popularity through social media, yet they contain high levels of toxic substances according to the council.
The toys, priced between £2 and £5, have been found in local shops and online marketplaces without necessary safety labels or manufacturer details, suggesting illegal importation.
Tests revealed the toys contain benzene, a hazardous chemical that poses severe health risks.
Adding to this, viral online videos encourage children to microwave these toys, risking severe burns from bursting hot gel and exposure to harmful chemical gases.
Trafford Council advises purchasing toys from reputable retailers, ensuring they have proper labelling.
If a squishy toy is damaged, leaking, or has an unusual smell, it should be removed from use immediately and kept away from children.
Cllr Keleigh Glenton, Executive Member for Community Safety and Civil Contingencies at Trafford Council, emphasised the importance of child safety and compliance in trading.
"Our priority is to keep children safe and protect fair trading environments for businesses that meet standards and follow the rules," Glenton said.
"Legitimate manufacturers and importers of toys spend significant amounts of money on ensuring the correct safety standards and tests are applied to their products.
"As well as being potentially dangerous, these illegal imports have a direct impact on compliant traders. If in doubt, buyers should check packaging firstly for the name and address of a manufacturer or importer based in the UK and secondly for CE/UKCA markings and safety instructions in clear English."