A nationwide recall has been issued for certain versions of the popular children’s toy known as Squeezy Dumplings after tests detected dangerous levels of benzene, a chemical linked to cancer. The toys, soft plastic dumplings featuring smiling faces housed in small basket-like containers, gained widespread popularity this year, largely driven by social media platforms such as TikTok.

The Office for Product Safety and Standards classified an imitation version of the toy as posing a “serious” chemical hazard, revealing benzene concentrations of 20 milligrams per kilogram in the toys’ outer layer. Benzene exposure is associated with a range of health risks, including irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as potential skin irritation and burning sensations in the digestive tract after significant exposure.

Authorities have advised parents to discontinue use of the toys immediately and to keep them out of children’s reach. While the recall officially identifies Samsons Cash and Carry, a distributor based in Cardiff, the problem appears to extend more broadly. Over 1,000 potentially counterfeit Squeezy Dumplings were confiscated from multiple stores in Hull after benzene was detected in some units, with trading standards officers subsequently destroying the seized inventory.

Officials highlighted that counterfeit versions may closely resemble authentic products, complicating efforts by consumers to distinguish between safe and unsafe items. Parents are urged to verify packaging carefully and purchase toys only from reputable outlets to minimize risk.

The recalled items, manufactured in China, fail to meet the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011 standards and lack essential labeling and safety markings. The absence of batch numbers or other identifying features on both the toys and their packaging further complicates the process of determining whether a specific product is affected.

Samsons Cash and Carry has initiated a recall of the product and is advising customers to get in touch with the company for additional information or support regarding the recall.