Popular children's toy 'Squishy Dumpling' under scrutiny in Latvia
Latvia's Consumer Rights Protection Center has launched checks on the popular toy 'Squishy Dumpling' over chemical safety concerns; no violations have been found so far.
The Consumer Rights Protection Center (PTAC) has started market surveillance measures regarding the children's toy 'Squishy Dumpling', which has become extremely popular on social media. The authority has received several complaints about the toy's strong chemical odor, raising concerns about its safety.
According to information provided to the LETA agency, PTAC has taken samples of several toys from different manufacturers for laboratory testing. The tests aim to determine the concentration of benzene and 18 other chemical substances. The toy attracted additional attention after similar products were removed from sale in other countries, including the United Kingdom, where significantly elevated benzene levels were detected.
PTAC emphasizes that a chemical smell alone does not necessarily mean the product fails safety requirements, as it may be a characteristic of a particular item. Likewise, a non-compliance finding in another country does not automatically apply to toys available on the Latvian market if they have a different manufacturer and identification, even if the toys look visually similar or identical.
So far, no non-conformities have been found in the received laboratory results. On-site inspections at physical stores have also not revealed any labeling issues, although the checks are still ongoing.
However, during reviews of online trading platforms, PTAC identified deficiencies in the provision of product information in all checked websites. Communication with distributors is currently underway, and the toy has already been removed from the offer on several online platforms.
A full overview of the market surveillance results will be provided once all expert opinions have been received, the necessary on-site checks have been completed, and the online marketplace reviews have been concluded.
PTAC advises consumers purchasing toys to ensure that the product includes the manufacturer's name or registered trademark and address, identification elements such as the model number, barcode, and other relevant information. The authority stresses that toys must bear the CE mark, confirming compliance with European Union health, safety, and environmental protection standards.
