Staffordshire County Council's Trading Standards service has issued a warning about 'squishy' sensory toys which have recently become popular online due to social media trends.

The toys, which are often designed to look like doughnuts, dumplings and other desserts, are causing concerns after some products failed to meet UK safety standards.

Although some of the items are perfectly safe, others have been seized by officers in Staffordshire because of their potential risk to children.

According to Staffordshire County Council: "Issues include the risk of skin irritation or nausea, choking hazards if products split or leak and reports of burns where toys have been heated.

"Parents are being advised to supervise younger children during use and to remove and report products causing skin irritation, headaches or respiratory symptoms."

Anthony Screen, Staffordshire County Council's Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Resilience, said: "These 'squishy' toys have become incredibly popular, particularly with children and young people, but safety should always come first.

"While many products on sale are perfectly legitimate, some cheaper imitation versions may not meet the standards required in the UK.

"We would encourage parents, carers and anyone buying these toys to check labels carefully, look for UKCA or CE markings and only buy from reputable retailers."

advertisement

The council is keen to remind businesses of their legal responsibilities when placing products on the market, ensuring that items meet UK safety requirements, are correctly labelled and can be traced back through reputable supply lines.

Do you have concerns about an unsafe product?

Report it here or call 01785 330356.