BALITANG TOKSIK! | 27 October 2026
Amid the observance of Consumer Welfare Month, toxic chemicals watchdog BAN Toxics commended the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for issuing public health advisories warning against the purchase and use of unauthorized Toy and Childcare Article (TCCA) products, ‘Squishy Delicious’ toys.
The FDA advisory follows an earlier consumer alert by BAN Toxics over food-like squeezy dumpling toys that have gained popularity online. Resembling steamed buns, these products continue to be sold in retail stores and through online shopping platforms. Available in various sizes and colors, with some variants containing shiny glitter, the toys are sold at prices ranging from ₱80 to ₱200 in retail stores and ₱60 to ₱150 on online shopping sites.
On September 14 and 30, the FDA issued separate public health advisories against the purchase and use of the unauthorized squishy toys Squishy Delicious Blue and Squishy Delicious Green, respectively.
The advisories stated that the purchase and use of the toys are unauthorized because the products have not been issued the required Certificate of Product Notification (CPN). Since the toys have not undergone the FDA notification process, the agency cannot assure their quality and safety. Potential hazards may arise from ingredients that are not permitted in toy and childcare article products. The use of substandard and possibly adulterated products may pose health risks, including endocrine disruption and reproductive or developmental effects, as well as injuries, choking, or suffocation due to small or broken parts.
In the UK and US, product recalls were issued for squishy dumpling toys due to excessive concentrations of benzene, posing a serious chemical risk to children’s health and safety.
Citing the UK Office for Product Safety and Standards, “The product presents a serious chemical risk because the outer layer contains an excessive concentration of benzene (20 mg/kg). If inhaled, benzene can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat. Exposure to large amounts may also cause a burning sensation in the digestive tract and skin irritation.”
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “Human exposure to benzene has been associated with a range of acute and long-term adverse health effects and diseases, including cancer and haematological effects. Exposure can occur occupationally, in the general environment, and in the home as a result of the widespread use of benzene-containing petroleum products.”
The DENR also issued Administrative Order No. 2026-29, known as the Chemical Control Order for Benzene, which prohibits its use in toys and other children’s products.
“We laud the FDA and the DENR for their regulatory actions against unauthorized toys that may contain chemicals that pose risks to a child’s health and development,” said Thony Dizon, Advocacy and Campaign Officer of BAN Toxics. “It is high time for government agencies to enforce the law and immediately recall and remove the products from the market.”
Republic Act No. 10620, also known as the Toy and Game Safety Labeling Act of 2013, provides that all toys and games, whether locally manufactured or imported, distributed, donated, or sold in the Philippines, must comply with the applicable safety labeling and manufacturer’s marking requirements under the Philippine National Standards (PNS) for toy safety.
BAN Toxics reminds parents and consumers to refrain from purchasing unauthorized squishy toys to reduce the risk of toxic exposure among children. #
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