Federal safety regulators have issued another recall for a popular children's squeeze toy, citing the risk of serious injury or death from the water beads inside. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced Thursday that more than 275 Rainbow Mystery Squishy Bun Toys, imported by Toyworld168, Inc. of Orlando, Florida, are affected.
The recall comes on the heels of earlier actions this month involving thousands of similar squishy dumplings and buns. The CPSC also urged consumers to stop using a third variety, even though the manufacturer did not agree to a recall.
Water beads, also known as jelly beads or hydrogels, can expand significantly when ingested, leading to intestinal blockages, choking, and other life-threatening injuries. The CPSC has repeatedly warned about the dangers these beads pose to young children, who may mistake them for candy.
In a statement, the CPSC emphasized that the hazard is not in the outer toy but in the beads within. “What is inside these toys can be deadly if swallowed,” the agency said. “We urge parents to check their children's toy bins immediately.”
This latest recall is part of a broader crackdown on water bead toys. Earlier this month, the CPSC recalled thousands of squishy dumplings and buns imported by other companies. The agency also issued a warning about a third product, but the manufacturer refused to cooperate, leaving consumers at risk.
Consumer advocates have long called for stricter regulation of water bead toys, noting that even small amounts can cause severe harm. The CPSC has been under pressure to act, especially after squishy toy recalls and warnings were issued over similar hazards.
Parents are advised to immediately remove the recalled toys from children's reach and contact Toyworld168 for a refund. The CPSC also recommends checking for other water bead products, as squishy toy recalls have expanded over ingestion dangers.
The recall underscores a growing concern among safety experts about the prevalence of water beads in children's toys. Some lawmakers have called for a federal ban, arguing that voluntary recalls are insufficient. Meanwhile, the CPSC continues to investigate other products that may pose similar risks.
For now, the agency is urging vigilance. “If you have any doubt about a toy's safety, throw it out,” the CPSC said. “The cost of a toy is not worth a child's life.”
