HUNDREDS of potentially unsafe children’s ‘squishy’ toys have been seized from shops in Reading this week, following concerns that they may not comply with UK product safety laws.
Reading Trading Standards officers have impounded over 320 of the popular sensory toys, including several gel-filled products, commonly known as ‘squishy dumplings’.
Officers raised concerns about a strong chemical odour from some of the toys and found that several products lacked essential safety information on their packaging.
Imitation versions of popular products such as Squishy Dumplings and NeeDoh were found without legally required traceability information.
This includes the name and address of a UK importer or manufacturer, or the UKCA or CE marking used to demonstrate compliance with safety standards.
Trading Standards is now urging consumers to exercise caution when purchasing squishy toys and other novelty products.
Products that lack this information, or that have a strong chemical smell, may pose a safety risk and should be avoided.
Shoppers should check that products display the appropriate UKCA or CE marking, include the manufacturer’s and UK importer’s details, and contain relevant safety warnings and instructions.
Councillors say that While these toys may appear harmless, products that do not meet the required safety standards can present risks to children.
Trading Standards is also advising consumers to stop using any toy that leaks, splits or becomes damaged, and to never heat, microwave or tamper with squishy toys.
Enforcement visits are continuing across the borough. Retailers are reminded of their legal responsibility to ensure that all toys supplied and offered for sale comply with UK toy and product safety legislation.
Any products found to be non-compliant may be seized, and businesses could face further enforcement action where breaches are identified.
Cllr Finn McGoldrick, Lead Member for Environmental Services and Community Safety, said: “Parents and carers should be able to trust that the toys they buy for their children are safe.
“These product seizures demonstrate our ongoing commitment to protecting consumers and removing potentially dangerous products from the marketplace.
“During the summer holidays, I would ask people to remain vigilant and make sure any toys purchased are from reputable retailers, that you check for the appropriate safety markings, and report any concerns about unsafe products to our Trading Standards team.”
Anyone concerned about a potentially unsafe product can report it to Trading Standards through the Citizens Advice consumer service on 0808 223 1133 or via the online reporting form at the Citizens Advice website.
