TWO viral squishy toys have been barred from the UK after they were found to contain mouldy and contaminated liquid.
Both items bear a striking resemblance to legitimate brands on shop shelves, but these fakes do not have the correct UK safety markings.
A counterfeit squishy dumpling has been rejected at the border for containing yeast and mould Credit: Gov.uk
The squishy dumplings aim to replicate genuine brands on UK shop shelves Credit: Gov.uk
A counterfeit squishy dumpling and ice cube toy have been rejected and destroyed at UK customs after failing necessary safety tests.
The Office for Product Safety and Standards have warned that these fake items contain a contaminated liquid filling.
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Both the Glitter Ice Cube Squeezy Toy and the Squishy Dumpling Bun Squeeze Toy, originating in China, were found to be filled with aerobic microbials, yeast and mould.
If the toy was damaged or leaked, the contamianted liquid could cause adverse health effects for certain consumers, such as those who are immunocompromised.
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These glitter ice cube squishy toys further posed a choking risk due to its detachable parts Credit: Gov.uk
Both items were rejected at the border, and will not go on sale in the UK Credit: Gov.uk
The Glitter Ice Cube Squeezy Toy was further found to present an immediate choking risk after small parts were found to be detachable and especially dangerous to children under 36 months.
Neither toys displayed the necessary product information and UKCA/CE markings, which verify they are safe for sale in the UK.
Both products attempt to imitate established brands, such as RMS’s “The Original Viral Mystery Squishy Dumpling” and NeeDoh’s “Nice Cube” range.
In recent months, thousands of fake squishy toys have been seized and destroyed by local Trading Standards Teams after they were found to pose genuine harm to children.
These fakes have strikingly similar feature to legitimate squishy dumpling brand, RMS Credit: Gov.uk
This legitimate toy by RMS also includes the basket-style pot (authentic toy pictured above) Credit: RMS
One recalled squishy dumpling fake was found to contain four times the legal limit of the highly toxic chemical and carcinogen, benzene.
Viral trends encouraging children to heat up these squishies in the microwave has left lifelong burns, with the liquid inside the explosive toys causing children as young as eight to require skin grafts.
Four details that tell you if a ‘Squishy Dumpling’ toy is genuine or fake
According to Which?, anyone buying a dumpling toy should look out for the following:
Clear safety instructions explaining what to do if the product leaks or is punctured.
A CE or UKCA mark that shows the item has been safety assessed.
The name and address of a UK-based responsible person, such as an importer or manufacturer.
Be wary of products that give off a strong or unusual chemical smell. Swansea Trading Standards launched its investigation after concerns were raised about some dumpling toys emitting a noticeable odour.
Parents have been urged to be careful when buying squishy toys, and to make sure they buy legitimate items from reputable retailers.
It is important to look for clear safety instructions, a CE or UKCA safety marking, and the name and address of a responsible importer or manufacturer on the packaging.
Parents should also be wary if the product gives off a strong or unusual chemical smell – then, the toy should be disposed of immediately.
