The Malta Competition and Consumer Affairs Authority (MCCAA) has issued a warning about a children’s stretchy sand toy called “Pufferz Puffer” (brand: Toi-Toys).
The product is being recalled because the sand inside was found to contain asbestos.
If the toy breaks, children may be exposed to this material, which can cause serious long-term health problems.
Consumers who have bought the above-mentioned product should refrain from using it and, where possible, return it to the retailer from where it was purchased. Retailers are obliged to redress consumers.
Consumers are always reminded to check the Safety Gate platform before purchasing products, in order to verify whether a product they are about to purchase has been listed as dangerous: https://ec.europa.eu/safety-gate-alerts/screen/webReport.
For queries relating to the product being recalled kindly get in touch with the Market Surveillance Directorate on marketsurveillance@mccaa.org.mt.
For queries relating to the remedies available to consumers who have purchased the recalled product, kindly get in touch with the Office for Consumer Affairs on consumer.rights@mccaa.org.mt.
EU strengthens toy safety rules
At the end of last year, the European Parliament adopted new rules to improve toy safety and better protect children’s health across the EU.
The updated legislation introduces a ban on harmful substances such as endocrine disruptors, skin sensitisers and PFAS (known as “forever chemicals”).
It also requires digital product passports for all toys, making it easier for customs authorities to carry out checks and for consumers to access safety information.
In 2023, toys worth €6.5 billion were imported into the EU, with around 80% coming from China.
Toys are currently the second most frequently reported dangerous consumer product in the EU rapid alert system.
27.04.2026.
