Hundreds of non-compliant toys seized in North Northants

20 July 2026

North Northamptonshire Council is urging consumers and businesses to check before purchasing toys, after the Trading Standards team seized 470 non-compliant and unsafe products since 1 July 2026.

Toys seized included counterfeit and potentially hazardous versions of popular squeeze toys.

All toys should comply with the requirements of the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011.

A large number of similar unsafe and non-compliant products have been found on sale across multiple premises across North Northamptonshire. Business owners have said that many of the items were purchased from informal sources, including individuals selling goods from vehicles and at car boot sales. As a result, Trading Standards is advising consumers and businesses to exercise increased caution when sourcing toys.

The Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011 place legal obligations on manufacturers, importers and distributors to ensure that toys placed on the market meet essential safety requirements. Businesses selling toys must ensure they comply with the obligations placed upon them under the Regulations and take reasonable steps to verify that products they supply meet all applicable safety and labelling requirements.

Before purchasing a toy, residents should check that it displays:

• A UKCA or CE marking
• The manufacturer's name and address
• The importer's name and address, where the manufacturer is based outside the UK
• A batch number, serial number or product reference number.

Serious safety concerns relating to non-compliant versions of the currently popular squishy dumpling toys have been raised. Some of these products have been found to emit a strong chemical odour and have been subject to product recalls due to the presence of benzene, a hazardous chemical that may pose a risk to children’s health.

As we approach the school summer holidays, I would ask that residents remain vigilant and make sure that any toys purchased display the necessary marks and information.

By remaining aware and purchasing from trusted sources, consumers can help ensure that toys are safe and compliant, protecting children from harm.Cllr Kirk Harrison, the Council’s Executive Member for Regulatory Services

Toy safety is so important when it comes to our younger residents. Our Trading Standards team continue to excel in the work they are doing daily, as with all teams across the council, to protect residents of all ages in North Northamptonshire.Cllr Martin Griffiths, Leader of the Council