Asda Issues Critical Safety Alert Over Contaminated Toys
Supermarket giant Asda has issued an urgent "do not use" warning and recall for specific Stretcherz toy products after dangerous asbestos contamination was discovered. The retailer is advising customers who own these items to cease using them immediately and has provided detailed guidance on how to safely dispose of the hazardous toys.
Affected Products and Health Risks
The recall involves two distinct assortments of Stretcherz toys: the Stretch Squad Assortment and the Slammerz Assortment. These are described as small stretch toys filled with a sand-like material. The Stretch Squad toys, bearing barcode 5050837662419, were sold from January 2024 through February 2026. The Slammerz toys, with barcode 5050835105345, were available from January 2025 to February 2026.
The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has confirmed the serious health risk, stating: "The product presents a risk to health as the sand may be contaminated with a small quantity of asbestos. Asbestos is a banned substance because it poses a risk to health even at low levels of exposure. The product does not meet the requirements of the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011."
Immediate Actions Required
Asda has pulled these products from sale and initiated a full recall. While the supermarket notes no reports of harm have been received, they are acting "out of an abundance of caution" to uphold safety standards. Customers in possession of the affected toys must follow strict disposal protocols:
- Stop using the toys immediately.
- If the sand filling remains in its original packaging, place it in a heavy-duty plastic bag, double-tape it securely, label it clearly, and store it out of children's reach.
- If the sand has been used, clean affected areas with wet cloths to avoid dust generation. Wear gloves and a mask during cleanup.
- Double-bag the sand, along with used gloves, masks, and cloths.
- Keep children and others away from cleaned areas until the process is complete.
Refund and Disposal Procedures
Customers are instructed to return the sand vials from the product to their nearest Asda store for a full refund. For those unable to visit a store, the sand should be disposed of in general household waste following the safety steps above, after which Asda should be contacted for a refund. The supermarket has apologised for any inconvenience and provided contact details: Asda Customer Relations at 0330 053 0111, or via email at sand.enquiries@htigroup.com.
The OPSS has indicated that additional distributors of these toys may be involved, with further instructions to be released. Asda confirms that no other Stretcherz toys are affected by this recall.
