Asda has expanded an urgent product recall after a "serious" chemical risk was identified in several handbag styles. The supermarket has told anyone with the affected items to stop using them immediately and return them to a store for a full refund.
The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) said the products present a serious chemical risk because they contain excessive concentrations of Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP). Phthalates may harm the health of children, possibly causing damage to the reproductive system. The products do not meet the requirements of the REACH Regulations 2008.
Eleven handbag styles now recalled
Asda had already recalled the £10 Front Pocket Xbody Bag, the £16 Opp Tote Bag and the £8 Black Nylon Phone Bag in September. Eight more bags have now been added to the list, bringing the total to 11 styles.
The newly added items include the George Nylon Backpack in Black, George Charm Hobo Workbag in Black, George Opp Crossbody Bag in Black, George Opp Tote in Black, George Front Pocket Xbody Bag in Black, George Opp Tote Bag in Black, George Nylon Phone Bag in Black, George Front Pocket Xbody Bag in Tan, Quilted Nylon Camera Bag in Burg, Zebra Nylon Phone Bag in Animal, and Quilted Nylon Camera Bag in Brown.
Refund and contact details
The OPSS recommended that owners stop using the products immediately and return them to any Asda store for a full refund. For further information, customers can visit the Asda recall page or contact Asda on 0330 053 0111. A receipt is not needed for the refund.
Asda said that at the time of shipment, the products passed all required tests, but subsequent testing identified phthalates at levels exceeding the permitted regulatory limit. The company noted that no safety incidents have been reported but said it is taking action to ensure compliance with regulations and maintain its commitment to consumer safety.
What are phthalates?
According to Breast Cancer UK, phthalates are Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) that interfere with male and female sex hormones. They are found in PVC, used to make plastic stronger and more flexible, and in PET, sometimes found in single-use bottles.
Phthalates may interfere with the hormone system by changing levels of sex hormones such as testosterone, oestrogen and progesterone. Some phthalates are recognised as harmful due to their toxic effects on reproduction or endocrine-disrupting properties, and they have been restricted or banned from toys, cosmetics and materials that come into contact with food or are used in baby products.
