Dumpling squishies safety warning issued

People are being urged to check before buying "squishy dumpling toys" because of their potential dangerousness, Trading Standards warns.

Officials issued a warning over the sensory toys, shaped like bao buns, which have become increasingly popular with children.

Cornwall Trading Standards said some manufacturers producing the toys did not meet the required safety standards and said people should check for the UKCA or CE safety markings when buying and to throw away any that had a strong chemical smell.

The department said counterfeit products could contain excessive levels of benzene - a toxic chemical which can cause drowsiness, dizziness, headaches and irritation to the eyes, nose and throat.

It said hundreds of squishy dumplings had been removed from sale in Cornwall after Trading Standards raised safety concerns.

Officers said samples had been sent away for testing and did not comply with the UK standards as they did not include "vital safety information on the label".

Fraser Glennie, team manager at Cornwall Trading Standards, said some squishy dumplings on the market "may pose serious safety risks".

He said: "Our officers are working proactively with retailers across Cornwall to identify potentially unsafe products and remove them from sale where necessary.

"We urge consumers to be cautious when purchasing these toys and to avoid any products that have a strong chemical smell."

Councillor Thalia Marringon, cabinet member with responsibility for Community Safety and Public Protection at Cornwall Council, said people needed "to be cautious" when purchasing potentially dangerous toys.

She said: "If you have concerns about a toy, especially if it does have a strong smell, please do not allow your children to play with it.

"We will continue to work with retailers to ensure that products sold here in Cornwall are safe."

Cornwall Trading Standards said anyone concerned about the safety of a product could report it via the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.

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