Credit: Adobe Stock & Hull City Council
Urgent Recall Issued Over Squishy Dumpling Toy That Has This Specific Smell
Parents are being urged to check their children’s Squishy Dumpling toys after an urgent product recall was issued over concerns that some versions contain a potentially harmful chemical.
The government has recalled one version of the popular toy after testing found it contained unsafe levels of benzene, while Trading Standards has also warned families to watch out for counterfeit versions that give off a strong chemical odor.
The recall comes as the viral sensory toys continue to soar in popularity, with experts urging anyone who owns an affected product to stop using it immediately.
Why the toy has been recalled
The UK Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) has recalled Squeezy Dumplings sold by Samsons Cash and Carry Ltd after identifying what it described as a ‘serious chemical risk.’
According to the recall notice, testing found the toy’s outer layer contained an excessive concentration of benzene measuring 20mg/kg.
Benzene is a chemical known to pose health risks if inhaled. The OPSS warned it can irritate the eyes, nose and throat, while exposure to larger amounts may also cause a burning sensation throughout the digestive tract as well as skin irritation.
The government also noted that improvements were required to the toy’s labeling and markings and said the product does not meet the requirements of the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011.
The recalled product is described as a plastic ‘basket-style’ pot containing a single soft plastic polymer dumpling toy. It was manufactured in China and does not feature batch numbers or product identifiers, making it more difficult for consumers to identify.
The specific smell parents are being warned about
Alongside the official recall, Trading Standards has continued warning parents about counterfeit Squishy Dumpling toys that have appeared across the UK.
Officials previously advised families to throw away any toy that gives off a strong chemical smell similar to petrol or gas.
Rhys Harries, Trading Standards Officer at Swansea Council, warned: “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.
“Our main concern is the risk posed to children if unsafe items end up in homes, school bags or play areas.”
Testing on counterfeit versions reportedly detected several volatile organic compounds (VOCs), including ethyl benzene, styrene and different forms of xylene.
Hull City Council has also warned that more than 1,000 counterfeit dumpling toys have been seized after benzene was detected in some products.
Councillor Ted Dolman urged parents not to panic but encouraged them to inspect toys carefully.
“If there is any concern a product in your home could be affected, don’t take a chance and dispose of it immediately,” he said.
What parents should do if they own one
The government’s advice is clear: anyone who owns one of the recalled Squeezy Dumplings should stop using it immediately and keep it out of reach of children.
Consumers who purchased the recalled product are advised to contact Samsons Cash and Carry Ltd for further information.
The recall notice does not specifically state whether customers are entitled to a refund. However, product recalls typically involve retailers providing guidance on available remedies, so affected customers are encouraged to contact the distributor directly to discuss their purchase.
Parents who believe they may have bought a counterfeit version are also being urged to dispose of the toy rather than continue using it.
Trading Standards says buyers should remain cautious, purchase toys only from reputable retailers and check that products display the appropriate UKCA or CE safety markings together with supplier information.
Experts have also advised checking the packaging carefully, as genuine versions include proper safety information explaining what to do if the toy leaks or becomes damaged.
Why experts say families shouldn’t ignore the warning
Although the recalled products represent only a small proportion of the hugely popular Squishy Dumpling craze, officials stress the warning should be taken seriously.
Exposure to benzene may cause irritation to the eyes, nose and throat, while larger amounts can also lead to digestive irritation and skin problems.
Some counterfeit versions have additionally been linked to symptoms including headaches, nausea and breathing difficulties, while authorities have previously raised concerns that certain imitation toys could also present choking hazards for young children.
Because the recalled dumplings do not carry batch numbers or unique product identifiers, parents are being encouraged to check any similar-looking toys they may already have at home.
Authorities say the safest course of action is to stop children playing with any recalled or suspicious product immediately and seek advice from the retailer or local Trading Standards if there is any doubt.
Related Article: Police Warn Viral TikTok Trend Is Putting Lives At Risk
Related Article: Ryanair Issues Statement After Passenger ‘Sucked Out’ Plane Window Mid-flight
Want more stuff like this?
Get the best viral stories straight into your inbox!
