Viral 'Dumpling Squishy' Toys Under Alert for Cancer-Causing Benzene

A viral toy sensation, Dumpling Squishy, is now facing international health alerts due to the detection of benzene in imitation versions. These stress-relief toys, designed to resemble Asian dumplings and known for their soft, slow-reforming texture, have become a hit with children and teenagers.

While the official Squishy Dumpling Co. states their toys are made from thermoplastic rubber, polypropylene, and polyurethane, concerns have arisen over cheaper, counterfeit versions. Health agencies in the United Kingdom, the United States, and Costa Rica have issued sanitary alerts and removed these imitation squishies from the market. The primary concern is the presence of benzene, a chemical classified as a human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer.

Benzene is linked to an increased risk of developing acute myeloid leukemia (AML), as well as other forms of leukemia and lymphoma. The American Cancer Society describes benzene as a colorless, flammable liquid with a sweet odor that evaporates quickly. It is commonly used in the production of plastics, resins, lubricants, and detergents, and is also found in gasoline, car exhaust, and cigarette smoke.

Direct contact with benzene can lead to skin irritation, itching, and burning sensations, as well as irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. While the Instituto de Seguridad y Servicios Sociales de los Trabajadores del Estado (ISSSTE) notes that immediate contact doesn't automatically mean cancer, the risk is dependent on the quantity and duration of exposure. The alert specifically targets imitation products, urging consumers to be cautious.