Urgent Recall of Children's Sand Art Kit Over Asbestos Contamination Concerns
Another children's toy has been urgently recalled amid fears it may be contaminated with asbestos, marking at least the fifth such recall this year. The product in question is the Sand Art Activity Kit, which includes 10 bags of coloured sand, bottles, and tools. It has been removed from major online marketplaces Amazon and eBay following a warning from the government's Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS).
Health Risks and Official Warnings
The OPSS stated that the toy presents a significant health risk because the sand may contain a small quantity of asbestos. Asbestos is a banned substance due to its severe health hazards, even at low exposure levels. The OPSS has determined that the product, manufactured under the brand Colour Day, fails to meet the requirements of the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011.
Parents who have purchased this kit are advised to stop using it immediately and dispose of it safely. If the sand is still in its original packaging, it should be placed in a heavy-duty plastic bag, securely double-taped, clearly labelled, and stored in a secure location away from children. For sand that has already been used, the OPSS recommends cleaning affected areas with wet cloths to minimise dust, while wearing gloves and a mask, and then placing the sand in a double-bagged container.
Recent Toy Recalls Linked to Asbestos
This recall is part of a troubling trend, with at least four other toys recalled this year over similar asbestos concerns related to sand-based products. Last week, supermarket chain Asda recalled its Stretcherz "Stretch Squad" and "Slammerz" figures after warnings they might contain trace amounts of asbestos. An Asda spokesperson emphasised that while no harm has been reported, the recall was conducted out of an abundance of caution.
Additionally, the Kids Create Sand Art Kit by Design Group UK was recently recalled due to asbestos contamination fears. The affected batches, sold between January 2025 and February 2026, had the barcode 5012128618222 and model YKICACA4A016, containing three 20g bags of coloured sand. Last month, children's play sand was also withdrawn from Hobbycraft after a parent reported apparent asbestos traces.
Safety Measures and Consumer Advice
Children and others should be kept away from areas where the recalled sand has been used until thorough cleaning is completed. The product should be disposed of in general household waste after proper containment. Buyers can contact their distributor for a full refund. The Independent has reached out to Amazon and eBay for comment on the removal of these products from their platforms.
These incidents highlight ongoing challenges in ensuring toy safety, particularly with materials like sand that can be susceptible to contamination. Authorities continue to monitor and act swiftly to protect public health, especially for vulnerable groups such as children.
