Sedeco bans Squeezy Dumplings toys due to benzene alert

Paraguay’s Secretariat for Consumer and User Defense (Sedeco) has prohibited the sale and use of the popular toy ‘Squeezy Dumplings’ following an international safety alert. The decision follows findings from the United Kingdom’s Office for Product Safety and Standards, which detected high concentrations of benzene in the toy’s outer layer.

Benzene is a chemical classified as a human carcinogen. Testing revealed concentrations of 20 mg/kg on the surface of the product. Exposure to high levels of benzene can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, as well as skin discomfort and digestive tract burning. Additionally, there are concerns regarding other potential filling materials such as gels, liquids, or powders that may pose health risks to children.

Sedeco has ordered the immediate removal of the product from the market and is urging parents to stop using the toy and dispose of it immediately. Suppliers have also been exhorted to verify the safety of similar products.