Officials sound alarm on squishy toy safety risks amid viral ‘NeeDoh challenge’
The trend encourages children to microwave the toys, then record video as it expands, changes texture or bursts.
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The Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued a warning about serious safety issues related to squishy toys.
The popular children’s product modeled after animals, food and cartoon characters are widely sold through online marketplaces and discount stores.
Some counterfeit versions on the market do not comply with federal requirements. The CPSC says they can include water beads, small parts, lead, phthalates and other dangerous substances.
The agency says it has identified 55 shipments of violative squishy toys at American ports. They also worked with U.S. Customs and Border Protection authorities to prevent 355,683 units from entering the country.
Parents are urged to check the seller of the toy, be cautious of suspicious bargain prices and check the packaging for manufacturer information, age gradings and safety warnings.
The agency also emphasized risks associated with a viral social media trend often referred to as the “NeeDoh challenge.”
The trend encourages children to microwave the toys, then record video as it expands, changes texture or bursts.
The toys can reach dangerously hot temperatures and release material that may inflict severe burns.
Some products containing sticky material can adhere to the skin, further worsening an injury as it continues transferring heat.
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