By Ma. Teresa Montemayor
MANILA – Toy collectibles pose choking hazard to young children, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) said Thursday.
The FDA reminded the public about this as the items’ popularity increase especially during the gift-giving season.
While the target of such products are adults, the FDA said colorful miniature replicas of iconic characters, vehicles, and objects entice young children.
“The increased hand-to-mouth acitivity of small children coupled with the small size and presence of small parts may lead to the unintended swallowing of these small items,” the agency said in a public advisory.
Parents, guardians and other adults are advised to avoid giving toy collectibles with small detachable parts to children under three years old.
To guide consumers in checking small parts that could pose as a choking hazard, the FDA has developed an anti-choking tester called “Choke Guard” which can be accesses at https://bit.ly/ChokeGuard
“Check the label of the toy collectibles for the recommended age group and instructions of use if they are not suitable for young children,” the FDA said.
They must also be made from non-toxic, lead-free, and phthalate-free materials.
Lead is a toxic metal. According to the World Health Organization, exposure to high amount of lead can harm the brain, liver, kidney and bones. It is stored in the teeth and bones, where it can accumulate over time.
Meanwhile, phthalates are plasticizers or synthetic chemical compounds. Health experts say chronic exposure to these adversely influence the endocrine system and the functioning of multiple organs.
The FDA advised that toy collectibles must be stored in a secure location that children cannot reach. (PNA)
