Parents warned over unsafe viral "squishy dumpling" toys linked to online trend
Trading Standards Officers have received a number of complaints with concerns about a strong chemical smell described as similar to petrol
Swansea Council's Trading Standards is warning parents and retailers about unsafe "squishy dumpling" toys and similar squishy products which have become the latest craze on TikTok.
Trading Standards Officers have received a number of complaints from parents whose children have wanted the products, with concerns raised about a strong chemical smell described as similar to petrol.
While these products may appear harmless and are often heavily promoted online through unboxing videos and viral trends, Trading Standards is warning that children can be exposed to potential risks if toys have not been properly tested, labelled and placed on the market in line with safety regulations.
The warning follows previous successful action by Trading Standards to identify and remove fake Labubu toys from sale and from the streets, helping to protect children and families from dangerous counterfeit products.
"It is vital that unsafe products are identified quickly before they can cause harm"
Officers say that as one online craze fades and another emerges, it is vital that unsafe products are identified quickly before they can cause harm.
Following complaints, officers examined a number of these products and found that some failed to meet basic toy safety requirements because key labelling information was missing.
Among the issues identified were the absence of:
- Clear safety instructions explaining what to do if the product leaks or is punctured
- A CE or UKCA mark to indicate the product has been safety assessed
- The name and address of a UK-based responsible person, such as an importer or manufacturer
Trading Standards says the name and address of the responsible manufacturer is particularly important because, without it, officers may not be able to trace who is accountable for the product if safety concerns arise.
Rhys Harries, Swansea Council's Trading Standards Officer, said: "These products are clearly attractive to children because they are being driven by online trends, but that does not mean they are safe.
"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.
"Our main concern is the risk posed to children if unsafe items end up in homes, school bags or play areas."
Following the seizure of these products from a number of retailers in Swansea, Officers have also had a variety of these products tested, with results identifying the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Substances identified in tested samples included: Ethyl Benzene, Styrene, m-Xylene, p-Xylene and o-Xylene.
These substances are associated with the petrol-like smell that has been reported. The levels identified in test certificates have raised significant safety concerns, and some of the chemicals detected are recognised as hazardous.
Mr Harries added: "Social media platforms such as TikTok can accelerate the spread of toy crazes almost overnight, but they can also help point Trading Standards towards the latest fake, unsafe or non-compliant products entering the market.
"We would urge parents to be cautious, to buy from reputable retailers, and to check for the correct safety markings and supplier details. We would also ask businesses to be alert to fast-moving trends and make sure the products they stock meet legal safety requirements."