DOTHAN, Ala. (WDNews) — Parents are being urged to check children’s squishy toys after safety agencies and independent testing raised concerns about counterfeit “Squeezy Dumpling” toys sold through online marketplaces.
According to information cited by multiple safety agencies, counterfeit versions of the popular squishy toys have been found to contain elevated levels of the chemical benzene. Reports indicate some unverified imported versions tested at concentrations above legal limits.
Safety officials warn that exposure to benzene may cause irritation to the eyes, nose, throat and skin, while prolonged exposure may pose additional health risks.
Officials also warn against a dangerous social media trend in which children microwave gel-filled squishy toys to soften them. Heating the toys can cause them to rupture or explode, potentially resulting in severe burns.
Consumers are encouraged to inspect toys for warning signs that they may be counterfeit, including:
A strong chemical odor similar to gasoline or paint fumes.
Missing or incomplete safety markings.
Missing manufacturer or importer information.
Lack of proper branded packaging or batch numbers.
The information also notes that the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has not issued a federal recall specifically for counterfeit “Squeezy Dumpling” toys. However, U.S. officials have issued warnings and recalls involving other hazardous squishy toys, and parents are encouraged to use caution when purchasing unbranded products from online marketplaces.
Parents are advised to keep suspicious toys away from children and dispose of them if they appear counterfeit or emit a strong chemical odor. Officials also recommend never heating squishy or gel-filled toys in a microwave.
