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One third of amusement park products found to be non-compliant

Publication date 3.6.2019 9.16
Press release

During spring, Customs examined 64 products that were sold or distributed in amusement parks. Of the examined products, seven were food contact materials (drinking bottles and cups with straws) and the 57 remaining were toys.

Of the 57 toys, 20 did not meet the set regulations. During testing, small parts that can cause choking came loose from eleven toys meant for small children. In seven soft toys, these parts were sequins used to decorate the toys, and from one soft toy, a small rubber hanging-loop came loose. Furthermore, the fragrances of the soft toy remained unknown, therefore, their compliance could not be ensured. A risk of choking was also found in a blow-up cup holder where a valve came loose. Moreover, serious errors in the chemical characteristics of the toys were discovered; five toy slimes were found to contain a quantity of boron that exceeded the threshold value. Boron compounds, such as borax and boric acid that are commonly used in slime, are dangerous and may impair fertility.

In addition to these, nine toy had errors in the labelling, for example, one cosmetic toy did not have a CE conformity marking. More minor errors, for instance regarding markings, were discovered in five toys.

Regarding food contact materials, one drinking bottle meant for children, was found to be seriously non-compliant as a small silicone part came loose from the mouth piece. When drinking from the bottle, the part that comes loose causes a risk of choking. Furthermore, this and three more drinking bottles, received a remark concerning their neck straps that were too long and caused a risk of strangulation. Because of this risk, the straps should have a detaching function. In addition, the document control of three plastic cups with straws resulted in remarks.

Customs did not release the non-compliant products for resale or distribution in amusement parks.

Tullilaboratorion tiedotteet