An urgent recall has been issued for counterfeit Squeezy Dumplings, which pose a severe chemical risk due to high levels of benzene. The toys, sold in plastic trays resembling bamboo steamer baskets, contain soft, gel-filled items shaped like purses or footwear. They have become popular among children and gone viral on TikTok for their collectable mystery aspect.
The Office for Product Safety and Standards discovered that fake versions contain excessive concentrations of benzene, a colorless, highly flammable liquid with a sweet smell that evaporates quickly. Short-term exposure can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, coughing, breathing difficulties, nausea, vomiting, and more severe effects if ingested or inhaled. Long-term exposure may lead to decreased white blood cells, leukemia, and DNA damage.
Recall and Safety Checks
The counterfeit products, which do not meet UK regulations, are being recalled by Cardiff-based distributor Samsons Cash and Carry Ltd. Rhys Harries, Swansea Council’s Trading Standards Officer, said: 'These products are clearly attractive to children because they are being driven by online trends, but that does not mean they are safe. When a toy gives off a strong chemical smell and is missing basic safety information, that should ring alarm bells for parents and retailers alike.'
Consumers can check for genuine toys by looking for a UKCA or CE mark, the manufacturer’s name and address, a clear age recommendation, safety warnings, and a model, batch, or serial number. Additionally, several UK airports have warned that squishy toys cause security issues due to the gel inside them.
