Urgent summer holiday warning to parents as hundreds of dangerous ‘chemical smelling’ squishy toys seized

NewsUK News PARENTS have been issued an urgent summer holiday warning after hundreds of dangerous squishy toys were seized. Over 320 sensory toys have been confiscated by trading standard officers in Reading after reports of strong chemical smells. ‘Squishy’ toys seized from shops across Reading Credit: SWNS Parents and carers have been warned never to microwave ‘squishy’ toys Credit: SWNS Knock-offs of the viral “Squishy Dumpling” and “NeeDoh” toys were found to be missing the legally required safety information. Reading Borough Council said although the toys may appear harmless, products that do not meet UK safety standards could pose a risk to children. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! Parents and carers are now being urged to stop using any squishy toy that leaks, splits or becomes damaged – and never to heat, microwave or tamper with them. The council warned that any products found to be non-compliant may be seized and businesses could face further enforcement action. Councillor 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.” This comes after 1,000 fake “Squeezy Dumpling” toys were seized earlier this month after tests revealed they contain a cancer-causing chemical. Most read in The Sun The knock-offs have been under a product recall alert notice, which prompted the Trading Standards Team to seize and destroy the toys from shelves across Hull. Benzene, a cancer-causing chemical that was discovered inside the illegitimate toys, can cause immediate irritation, as well as long-term effects. Comment now