FDA Warns Against Unauthorized Squishy Toys Over Potential Health and Safety Risks

 

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has urged consumers to exercise caution when purchasing squishy toys, warning that unauthorized products may pose health and safety risks to children.

The warning comes amid growing concerns over potentially hazardous materials used in some squishy toys. The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) previously cautioned consumers about counterfeit products containing water beads, gels, liquids, powders, sand, and other unidentified substances.

According to the US agency, damaged or ruptured outer coverings could expose children to potentially dangerous fillings. Water beads are particularly concerning because they can expand after being swallowed, potentially causing intestinal blockages, choking, aspiration, or injuries if inserted into the nose or ears. Other unknown materials may also pose chemical exposure and inhalation risks.

Similar concerns have prompted regulatory action in other countries. Malaysia reportedly seized 5,801 squishy toys for failing to carry the required Safety Compliance Mark, according to The Straits Times on October 25.

In the Philippines, the FDA issued separate advisories in September against purchasing and using two unauthorized products identified as Squishy Delicious Blue and Squishy Delicious Green. Both toys were identified as China-made products based on images released by the agency.

The FDA explained that the products had not undergone the required notification process, leaving the agency unable to guarantee their quality and safety.

Meanwhile, environmental watchdog BAN Toxics welcomed the FDA's advisories and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources' (DENR) issuance of an order prohibiting the use of benzene in toys and other children's products.

Thony Dizon, advocacy and campaign officer of BAN Toxics, said the regulatory measures were important in addressing unauthorized toys that could contain chemicals harmful to children's health and development.

Dizon also called on government agencies to strengthen enforcement and ensure that potentially hazardous products are recalled and removed from the market.

BAN Toxics further emphasized that toys and games sold in the Philippines must comply with applicable safety labeling and marking requirements under the Philippine National Standards for toy safety, pursuant to Republic Act 10602, also known as the Toy and Game Safety Labeling Act.

Despite the warnings, some consumers remain unaware of the potential dangers associated with these products.

Andrea Cruz, a classmate of Elisse, said she was surprised to learn about the possible health risks of squishy toys. She first encountered the products during a trip to Divisoria in July and later purchased one from Elisse when classes resumed in August.

Cruz bought a product marketed as a crunchy peanut squishy, which resembled an unroasted peanut and contained beads that produced a crackling sensation when squeezed.

Despite learning about the safety concerns, she said she had no plans to discard the toy, describing it as entertaining. She added that she regularly cleaned and disinfected her squishy toys, particularly after purchasing new ones.