Low-cost toys from Chinese online marketplaces may pose health risks
Inspections reveal that some toys purchased online may contain hazardous substances and fail to meet EU safety requirements.
After the Christmas season, when many toys purchased from online marketplaces entered households, experts are warning consumers about potential product safety risks. Laboratory testing has shown that some low-cost toys ordered from Chinese e-shops may contain phthalates, lead, or brominated flame retardants, substances that can be harmful to children’s health.
In addition to chemical risks, these products often show mechanical safety issues, such as sharp edges, small detachable parts, or insufficient material strength. In many cases, such toys do not comply with European toy safety requirements and have not undergone proper conformity assessment in line with EU legislation.
Consumers are therefore advised to review and check toys already purchased, paying attention to product markings, workmanship quality, and any unusual odors from plastics or coatings. If there is uncertainty about a product’s safety or its compliance with EU regulations, consumers may contact professionals who can assess whether the product meets the applicable legal requirements for the European market.