Blackpool Council's Trading Standards team has confiscated 372 counterfeit toys from three retailers in recent weeks, citing potential hazards to children. The seized items include imitation versions of popular sensory toys like NeeDohs, known as squishy dumplings, which have surged in popularity on social media.
Harmful Chemicals Found in Counterfeit Toys
Laboratory analysis of similar counterfeit products has revealed the presence of phthalates, solvents, formaldehyde, and benzene. These chemicals can cause skin irritation, nausea, headaches, and respiratory problems. Some toys also pose a fire hazard. Cllr Dave Flanagan, cabinet member for public protection, housing and empty properties, stated: "If you give a child a toy, you want to know they can play happily and safely with it - not be at risk of coming to harm. The items our Trading Standards team have seized might seem to be budget-friendly, or brightly coloured and appealing to young children, but they simply aren't worth the risk."
Urgent Safety Warning for Parents
Officials urge shoppers to exercise caution when purchasing toys. Warning signs include unusually low prices, strong or unusual smells, and lack of proper packaging. Under UK law, toys must display a CE or UKCA safety mark, along with the supplier's name and address in the UK or EU, warnings, age restrictions, and instructions in English.
Flanagan added: "They've found plastic items with hazardous liquids that could ooze out and be ingested by children or pets. These, paired with the online trends encouraging children to microwave toys, can pose genuine, serious dangers."
Enforcement and Support for Safe Traders
Blackpool Council uses spot checks and enforcement actions to remove hazardous items from circulation, supporting responsible traders who sell safe and legal products. Residents are advised to check packaging carefully, buy from trusted retailers, and be wary of suspiciously low prices or strong odors.
