About 37,000 squishy toys sold across the United States have been recalled after federal safety officials warned that water beads inside them could pose a risk of serious injury or death to children.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission announced the recall of ABC Trading's Squishy Dumpling Toys, model 3655, and Crazy Squib Ball Toys, model 3984.
The toys contain glitter and water beads. According to the CPSC, the beads can expand beyond limits permitted under mandatory federal toy safety standards.
If swallowed, the beads can expand inside a child's body, creating choking or intestinal obstruction hazards. The CPSC warns that this can result in severe discomfort, vomiting, dehydration and, in serious cases, death.
The Squishy Dumpling toys were sold in several translucent colors and packaged in tan plastic containers resembling bamboo steamers. The Crazy Squib Ball toys were also sold in multiple colors and wrapped in white netting.
NBC Chicago reports that the products were sold at stores nationwide from April through June. The toys have attracted particular attention because similar squishy products have become popular among children and frequently appear in viral unboxing videos on social media.
Consumers who have the recalled toys should stop children from using them immediately.
The CPSC says owners can contact ABC Trading for a full refund. Consumers are instructed to mark the affected toy "RECALLED," dispose of it and provide the company with photographic proof of disposal.
No injuries associated with these recalled products had been reported when the recall was announced.
The latest action comes amid broader concerns about squishy toys containing water beads. Federal regulators have previously warned that swallowed water beads can expand and cause intestinal blockages, choking and other potentially severe injuries.
