Toxics watchdog BAN Toxics issued a consumer alert over trendy, food-like squeezy dumpling toys that have recently gained widespread popularity after going viral online. Resembling steamed buns, these products are readily available in retail stores and online shopping platforms. Available in various sizes and colors, with some variants containing shiny glitter, the toys are sold at prices ranging from ₱65 to ₱120 in retail stores and ₱55 to ₱155 on online shopping sites.
Last June, the UK Government issued a product recall for squeezy dumpling toys due to excessive concentrations of benzene, posing a serious chemical risk to children’s health and safety.
Citing the UK Office for Product Safety and Standards, “The product presents a serious chemical risk because the outer layer contains an excessive concentration of benzene (20 mg/kg). If inhaled, benzene can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat. Exposure to large amounts may also cause a burning sensation in the digestive tract and skin irritation.”
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “Human exposure to benzene has been associated with a range of acute and long-term adverse health effects and diseases, including cancer and haematological effects. Exposure can occur occupationally, in the general environment, and in the home as a result of the widespread use of benzene-containing petroleum products.”
“Children tend to put toys in their mouths. Food-like squeezy dumpling toys may appear harmless and playful, yet they may contain chemicals that pose risks to a child’s health and development. These products also violate existing toy safety standards in the country,” said Thony Dizon, Advocacy and Campaign Officer of BAN Toxics.
Republic Act No. 10620, also known as the Toy and Game Safety Labeling Act of 2013, provides that all toys and games, whether locally manufactured or imported, distributed, donated, or sold in the Philippines, must comply with the applicable safety labeling and manufacturer’s marking requirements under the Philippine National Standards (PNS) for toy safety.
The Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of RA 10620 designate the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) as the primary regulatory agencies responsible for implementing the law. The FDA, with the assistance of the DTI, shall lead the inspection, monitoring, surveillance of establishments, and collection of product samples, in coordination with other concerned government agencies, to determine compliance with the Act and its IRR.
Administrative actions for violations of this Act and its IRR shall be subject to the provisions of RA No. 9711, otherwise known as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Act of 2009. Covered products found to be in violation shall be seized or confiscated in favor of the government and disposed of in accordance with the pertinent laws and regulations.
BAN Toxics urges the FDA, DTI, and Local Government Units (LGUs) to conduct post-marketing surveillance, confiscation operations, issue public health advisories, and implement appropriate enforcement measures such as product recalls to remove food-like squeezy dumpling toys from the market and ensure that only safe toys are made available to consumers.
To promote children’s safety, BAN Toxics also reminds parents and consumers to make informed purchasing decisions by observing the following:
- Always read the product information and check for the required labeling.
- Choose toys that are appropriate for your child’s age and developmental abilities.
- Avoid purchasing toys with strong odors or those that may contain harmful chemicals in their colors, materials, or components.
- Verify Toys and Childcare Articles (TCCAs) through the FDA Verification Portal to check for relevant public health advisories at https://verification.fda.gov.ph.
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References:
https://www.mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/squishy-dumpling-toy-safety-alert-37273207
https://www.gov.uk/product-safety-alerts-reports-recalls/product-recall-squeezy-dumplings-2606-0196
Media contact:
Thony Dizon | Advocacy and Campaign Officer | BAN Toxics ! 0917-8322616