PARENTS have been warned after "potentially toxic" toys lacking safety markings and traceability have been seized.
The "squishy" toys were found on sale in Northumberland and are the subject of a new safety alert from the county council's trading standards officers.
The products are copies of popular toys but are missing the required CE or UKCA safety marks, as well as traceability details for importers or manufacturers.
A spokesperson for Northumberland County Council said: "Copies of toys such as Squishy Dumplings and NeeDoh have been found to lack legally required traceability information, including the name and address of a UK-based importer or EU manufacturer and a UKCA or CE mark which the manufacturer attaches to indicate compliance with safety standards.
"Similar products seized across the country have been confirmed to contain high levels of Benzene which is carcinogenic.
"The toys often emit a strong, pungent chemical smell when opened, with laboratory tests on similar items revealing the presence of toxic chemicals."
The council also warned of a social media trend encouraging people to microwave the toys to soften them, resulting in children suffering serious burns from bursting or leaking items.
Councillor Gordon Stewart, cabinet member for public safety at Northumberland County Council, said: "The safety of our children must always come first, and we are issuing this important warning to consumers, especially parents, to remain vigilant when purchasing any toys to ensure they are buying the genuine product.
"While these cheaper 'squishy' toys may look harmless, they could pose a hidden risk to children. Our Trading Standards officers are currently visiting stores across the county to ensure retailers remove these items from shelves."
Consumers are advised to check for the CE or UKCA safety mark and a UK importer or EU manufacturer address before purchasing toys.
The council have asked anyone who has purchased or seen the toys for sale in Northumberland to contact their trading standards team at tradingstandards@northumberland.gov.uk.
Share