Health warning issued over toys that can harm children’s development
Parents warned over common toys that can harm young children
![Parents have been warned over potentially harmful toys [stock image]](https://static.independent.co.uk/2025/03/28/7/32/iStock-1835186835.jpeg)
- Fifty scientists, academics, and patient organisations have urged the UK government to protect British children from harmful "forever chemicals" in toys.
- They warn that UK safety regulations could soon fall behind new EU standards, potentially exposing British children to toys considered unsafe across Europe.
- Examples of concerning chemicals include hormone-disrupting bisphenols in teething toys and PFAS in squishy items, which experts state are particularly dangerous for developing children.
- The group has written to Minister for Consumer Protection Kate Dearden, calling for an update to the UK's 2011 Toy Safety Directive to align with the EU's science-led approach.
- A government spokesperson responded by stating the UK has robust product safety laws and is updating them to ensure children's safety and prevent unsafe products from reaching the market.