An urgent product recall warning has been issued for certain Crayola-branded craft kits sold at major UK retailers, including Asda and Sainsbury's. The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has advised anyone who has purchased these items to stop using them immediately due to the potential presence of asbestos.
Which Products Are Affected?
The recall covers two specific products: Hunter Price's Crayola-Branded Touchy Feely Craft Box (Model: 35052, Barcode: 5061047350522) and Hunter Price's Crayola-Branded Discovery Craft Box (Model: 35501, Barcode: 5061047355015). Both items contain sand that may be contaminated with asbestos, a banned substance that poses serious health risks even at low levels of exposure.
The OPSS stated: "The product presents a risk to health as the sand included in the kit 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."
Where Were They Sold?
The Touchy Feely Craft Box was sold by retailers including Asda, Bargainmax, CJS Trade Limited, Cloud Nine Boutique Ltd, Geeantee Wholesale, Sainsbury's, Scottish Midland Cooperative, and The Works. The Discovery Craft Box was available at Asda, BargainMax, CJS Trade Limited, Sainsbury's, Scottish Midland Co-Operative, The Works, and Vape-Superstore Limited.
What Should Consumers Do?
The OPSS has issued clear instructions for disposal. If the sand is still sealed in its original packaging, place it in a heavy-duty plastic bag, seal it with double tape, label it clearly, and store it securely out of children's reach. If the sand has already been used, clean the area with wet cloths to avoid creating dust, while wearing gloves and a mask. Double-bag the sand, gloves, mask, and cloths. Keep children and others away until the area is fully cleaned. The product should then be disposed of in general household waste or returned to the retailer for a full refund.
Many retailers have issued their own recall notices. Sainsbury's advised: "We are asking customers that have purchased the above products to stop using it immediately." Customers should dispose of the item in household waste and then visit a Sainsbury's store with proof of purchase for a refund. Asda similarly stated: "If you have purchased Crayola Discovery Craft Box, stop using the product immediately and bring it back to your nearest store where you will be given a full refund."
For further information, consumers can contact the manufacturer, Hunter Price, on 0161 653 1306 or via email at sales@hunterprice.co.uk.
