Chemical hazards
Phthalates: risks and product recalls in Ireland
Chemicals used to soften plastics that are restricted in toys and childcare items; products are recalled when levels exceed safe limits.
What it is
Phthalates are chemicals added to PVC and other plastics to make them soft and flexible. Several are restricted in the EU in toys and childcare articles because of concerns about their effects on health.
Health effects
Some phthalates are of concern as endocrine (hormone) disruptors and have been linked to effects on reproduction and development with long-term exposure. The risk is greatest for young children, who may mouth or chew soft plastic items.
How it leads to a recall
Products — often soft plastic toys, inflatables and accessories, frequently sold on online marketplaces — are recalled when testing finds restricted phthalates above the permitted limit.
What to do
Stop using an affected product and return it for a refund, keeping it away from children in the meantime.
Recent Phthalates recalls
15 recalls we track mention phthalates, newest first.
KRAIDAY Cat Paw Squishy toy recalled due to chemical phthalate exposure risk
A safety issue has been identified with the Cat Paw Squishy toy sold by KRAIDAY on the TEMU platform due to chemical exposure to restricted phthalates over permitted limits. This poses a risk to children's health by potentially damaging their reproductive system.
Hoot Girls Printed Flip Flops recalled due to chemical hazard from phthalates
Gem Imports Limited is recalling Hoot Girls Printed Flip Flops due to a chemical risk from exposure to restricted phthalates over permitted limits, which can harm children's health. The model number is TOY5313/OB and the batch number is 12034.
Jiageya outdoor beach sandals recalled due to banned chemicals risk
Outdoor beach sandals for toddlers and kids, brand Jiageya, are recalled due to the presence of banned chemicals, including Phthalates and extractable lead, which can harm children's health. These sandals were sold on the SHEIN online marketplace.
Ruian Manmi E-commerce Co. plastic sandals recalled due to chemical risk
Plastic Sandals manufactured by Ruian Manmi E-commerce Co. sold on Shein are recalled due to the presence of banned/restricted chemicals, specifically Phthalates and extractable Cadmium, which can harm children’s health. There are approximately 37 affected products in the Republic of Ireland.
Temu rain boots for kids recalled due to banned chemicals posing health risks
Rain boots for kids sold on the TEMU platform are recalled due to the presence of banned/restricted chemicals, specifically Phthalates and Chlorinated Paraffins, which can harm children's health. Approximately 14 affected products are in the Republic of Ireland.
Jiageya kids cartoon themed sandals recalled due to banned chemicals
Kids Cartoon Themed Sandals sold on the TEMU platform are recalled due to the presence of banned/restricted chemicals, including Phthalates, Extractable Cadmium, and lead, which can harm children’s health. The brand is Jiageya.
Foshan chaoxin soft toy pig recalled due to chemical risk from phthalates
A soft toy pig sold by AliExpress is recalled due to a chemical risk from excessive phthalates in the eyes, which may harm children's reproductive health. The product ID is 1005006633362515.
Poundland recalls Disney licensed colouring pencils due to chemical risk
Poundland UK T/A Dealz ROI is recalling Disney Licensed Colouring Pencils in Tube due to a chemical risk. The product contains unacceptable levels of Phthalates that are classified as unsafe for young children.
Axolotl Plush Toy recalled due to chemical risk from excessive phthalates
The Axolotl Plush Toy sold on Amazon is recalled due to a chemical risk from excessive Phthalates in the suction cup, which may harm children's health. The product does not comply with safety regulations.
Fiestas Guirca recalls Viking Girl costume due to excessive phthalates
Fiestas Guirca is recalling the Fiesta Guirca Viking Girl Costume sold by Party Delights due to a serious chemical risk from excessive Phthalates, which may harm children's health. The product does not comply with safety regulations.
Bestway paddling pool recalled due to excessive phthalates risk
A safety issue has been identified with the Bestway Paddling Pool sold on Amazon due to an excessive concentration of phthalates, which may harm children's health. Consumers are advised to discontinue use and discard the product.
Holzspielerei Kinderbogen 80 cm Toy bow recalled due to chemical risk from phthalates
The Holzspielerei Kinderbogen 80 cm Toy bow has been recalled due to a chemical risk from excessive phthalate concentration in the red grip tape, which may harm children's health. The product was sold on the Amazon platform.
Baghera children's balance bikes recalled due to phthalate chemical risk
Certain Baghera Children’s balance bikes are recalled due to a safety issue with the handles containing phthalates, which may harm children's health. The affected models are 861, 862, and 863.
Smyths Toys Jumping Ball recalled due to chemical risk from DIBP
Smyths Toys HQ UC is recalling its Jumping Ball due to a chemical risk from excessive levels of the plasticiser DIBP, which may harm children's health. The affected model is 124625.
Smyths Toys recalls Jumping Ball due to chemical risk from DIBP
Smyths Toys HQ UC is recalling its Jumping Ball due to a chemical risk from excessive levels of the plasticiser DIBP, which may harm children's health. The affected product code is 124625.
Official sources
This page is general information, not medical advice. Always follow the official recall notice, and contact your GP, pharmacist or the HSE if you are worried about your health. In an emergency call 112 or 999.