Squishy Dumplings, a popular squishy toy that became a viral craze among children, have been urgently recalled after being found to contain a toxic chemical that can cause cancer. The toys, manufactured in China and sold by Samsons Cash and Carry, were discovered to have an excess concentration of benzene in their outer layer, posing a 'serious chemical risk'.
Health Risks of Benzene
Benzene is a colourless, volatile liquid with a sweet odour, used as a starting material for plastics, foams, dyes, detergents, solvents, and insecticides. According to health authorities, inhalation of benzene can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat. Exposure to large amounts may result in a burning sensation throughout the digestive tract and skin irritation. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies benzene as carcinogenic to humans (Group 1), known to cause acute myeloid leukaemia and potentially other cancers.
Incident Involving Child
One 10-year-old girl, Bella, faces being scarred for life after her squishy toy burst, causing hot liquid inside to land on her face. Some children were reportedly heating the toys in microwaves as part of a bizarre social media trend to 'make them soft'.
Recall Details
Samsons Cash and Carry has issued an urgent recall for the Squishy Dumplings. Consumers are advised to stop using the toys immediately and return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. The recall follows testing that revealed the excessive benzene levels, which exceed safety limits.
