‘Toxic’ Christmas toys could put children at risk of long-term fertility problems, officials warn

Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy Toxic chemicals that may cause long-term fertility problems have been found in cheap children’s toys on sale for Christmas. “We understand the financial pressures people are under at the moment, but I’d urge parents to resist the temptation to buy cheap toys like these,” said Jane Bailey, trading standards manager at Nottingham City Council. “Christmas is a hotbed for criminals who put profit before safety by selling dangerous, counterfeit toys at cheap prices to unsuspecting shoppers,” said councillor Simon Blackburn, chair of the LGA’s Safer and Stronger Communities Board. “Bargain hunters need to be aware that fake, substandard toys can break and cause injuries or pose choking hazards; toxic materials can cause burns and serious harm; while illegal electrical toys can lead to fires or electrocution.” Support free-thinking journalism and attend Independent events Robert Chantry-Price, a senior officer at the Chartered Trading Standards Institute, told the BBC the discovery of high levels of phthalates in children’s toys was “frightening”.