Popular squishy toys have been urgently recalled in the United Kingdom after testing revealed they contain a highly toxic chemical that can cause leukemia, according to consumer safety authorities. The recall affects several brands of soft, slow-rising foam toys popular among children.
The chemical, identified as dimethylformamide (DMF), was found at levels exceeding safe limits. DMF is a solvent used in industrial processes and is classified as a potential human carcinogen. Prolonged exposure has been linked to an increased risk of leukemia and other cancers.
The UK Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) issued the recall notice, advising consumers to stop using the toys immediately and return them to the point of purchase for a full refund. The affected products were sold online and in stores across the country.
Health experts warn that children are particularly vulnerable due to their tendency to put toys in their mouths and their developing immune systems. Symptoms of DMF exposure can include skin irritation, nausea, and liver damage.
Consumers are urged to check the OPSS website for a full list of recalled products and to follow safety guidelines. The recall highlights ongoing concerns about chemical safety in imported children's products.
