Dozens of children’s toys recalled in the UK after asbestos is discovered

WorldFamily & Parenting
27 Apr 2026 • 7:38 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Dozens of children’s toys recalled in the UK after asbestos is discovered

  • Over 30 children's toys, including sand art kits and stretchy rubber toys, have been recalled in the UK since the start of the year due to asbestos contamination.
  • Major retailers such as Tesco, Primark, Matalan and Argos have removed these products from sale after the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) identified the hazardous substance.
  • The asbestos is believed to originate from sand in Chinese mines, where natural asbestos fibers can occur and product labeling rules are less rigorous.
  • Consumers are urged to check the OPSS website for recalled items, immediately stop using them, secure them, and return them to the place of purchase.
  • The recalls have prompted concerns about product safety, with consumer groups like Which? calling for stronger checks and better regulation to prevent dangerous products from reaching shelves.

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