EcoWaste seeks crackdown on unsafe, unauthorized squishy toys

MANILA, Philippines — The EcoWaste Coalition has called for a government crackdown on unauthorized and counterfeit squishy toys, urging the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to work with customs, police and local government units to stop their sale ahead of the Christmas shopping season.

The environmental and health watchdog group said squishy toys lacking market authorization and proper labeling continue to be sold in informal markets, raising concerns about the possible presence of hazardous substances in some products.

The call came after the FDA issued safety reminders on the purchase and proper use of squishy toys through Advisory No. 2026-1705, published Oct. 28. The agency noted that the toys have become increasingly popular among children and adults because of their soft texture, colorful designs and sensory appeal.

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The FDA cited safety concerns raised by authorities in other countries, including findings involving certain squishy toys that may emit or contain potentially hazardous chemicals.

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“Safety authorities in other countries have raised concerns about certain squishy toys that may contain or release potentially hazardous substances. European assessments have found that some squishy toys can emit organic chemicals that may raise health concerns, while recent international product-safety actions have also involved counterfeit or non-compliant squishy toys containing hazardous substances or water beads,” the FDA said.

“Certain squishy products have also been investigated for elevated levels of chemicals such as benzene,” it added.

Benzene is an industrial chemical used in the production of plastics and other materials. Prolonged exposure can increase the risk of blood disorders and leukemia, according to the US National Cancer Institute.

However, the agency clarified that the findings did not establish that all squishy toys were hazardous.

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“These results do not imply that all squishy toys are hazardous, but rather underscore the necessity of selecting products with caution. In light of these issues, the FDA hereby reminds consumers to observe the proper use of squishy toys and exercise care and diligence in selecting toys for use by children,” it said.

The EcoWaste Coalition said it brought the proliferation of squishy toys without market authorization and labeling information to the FDA’s attention on July 28, submitting evidence of their sale by toy wholesalers and retailers in bargain shopping malls and along streets in Binondo, Manila, including Santa Elena Street.

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The group had earlier publicized the sale of unapproved squishy toys in May and June. These included products shaped like buns, dumplings, fries, pancakes and cookies, some of which, it said, had been banned or recalled in Europe for lacking required safety markings, having a petrol-like odor or containing chemicals of concern, including benzene and other volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

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To help consumers avoid potentially unsafe products, the FDA advised parents and caregivers to observe the following precautions when buying squishy toys and allowing children to use them:

Check the toy for signs of damage or unusual odors. Avoid products with a strong chemical, petroleum or solvent smell, an unusually oily or sticky surface, leaks, holes, tears, punctures, discoloration or parts that easily tear or separate.

Check the product’s labeling and packaging. Be cautious of toys with missing or incomplete manufacturer or importer information, inadequate safety labels or age recommendations, poorly made packaging, unidentified sellers or unusually low prices.

Choose age-appropriate toys and supervise children. Make sure the toy is suited to the child’s age and abilities, and provide proper adult supervision during play.

The EcoWaste Coalition also discouraged the purchase of squishy toys containing water beads, citing warnings from the US Consumer Product Safety Commission that the expandable plastic beads pose “deadly ingestion, choking, and obstruction hazards.”

To address the circulation of potentially unsafe products, the group urged the FDA to coordinate with customs, police and local government authorities in conducting enforcement operations against unauthorized and counterfeit toys, particularly during the pre-Christmas shopping rush.

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“Like the consumer and product safety authorities of Malaysia and Thailand, we urge the government of the Philippines to seize illegal squishy toys and hold those behind the illicit trade accountable,” the group said.