Trading Standards officers in Hull have confiscated more than 1,000 counterfeit children's toys after tests revealed the presence of benzene, a known carcinogen.
The fake products, marketed as Squeezy Dumplings, were removed from shops across the city following the alarming discovery.
According to Hull City Council, benzene poses serious health risks beyond cancer, including irritation to the skin, eyes, nose and throat.
The Office for Product Safety and Standards has now issued a nationwide recall for the affected items. Each toy consists of a plastic basket containing a dumpling-themed squishy figure inside.
Local authorities have destroyed all seized products in response to the recall. Councillor Ted Dolman has urged parents to examine their children's toys carefully whilst cautioning against alarm.
"First of all, I would advise anyone not to panic," he said.
The councillor explained that packaging offers the clearest indication of authenticity.
"If they just say that they've been made in another country and don't say that they've got a supplier or importer in the UK or in the EU, they're most likely not the genuine ones," he advised.
However, he stressed that even products displaying proper supplier details may prove unsafe or non-compliant.
Parents should therefore exercise caution and purchase only from trusted, reputable retailers.
Councillor Dolman issued a clear directive for households with potentially affected products.
"If there is any concern that a product in your home could be affected, don't take a chance and dispose of it immediately," he stated.
Hull City Council has appealed to residents for assistance in tackling the distribution of these hazardous items.
Anyone who has purchased one of the toys, or who has knowledge of retailers selling them, is encouraged to contact Hull Trading Standards directly.
The council hopes public cooperation will help prevent further circulation of the dangerous counterfeit products throughout the region.
