NKFH is examining the heavy metal content of battery-operated dolls, plush toys and electronic toys

In recent years, a large number of toys containing electrical components whose soldering did not meet the requirements of the relevant EU standards have been found through the European Union alert system. Last year, there were nearly 300 cases of non-compliance, in which the lead content of the solders and the lead and cadmium content of the PVC sheath that forms the insulation of the wires posed a risk.

Many people throw toys in municipal waste after they are worn out, not even thinking about the electrical components. In landfills, hazardous elements can end up in the soil and water. The EU regulation on electronic waste limits the heavy metal content of electrical solders. Non-compliance mostly occurred with products manufactured in third countries. Therefore, NKFH is particularly examining the cadmium and lead content of the solders and wires of popular battery-operated children’s toys.

The Food and Chemical Industry Laboratory of NKFH examines, among other things, battery-operated light-up, talking, moving dolls, battery-operated plush toys, game consoles and walkie-talkies, as well as battery-operated game consoles, children’s earphones and headphones. The sampling, conducted by government agencies under the professional guidance of the authority, is carried out on a wide scale, from toy stores, shopping malls, department stores, stores operated in the Far East, as well as online stores.

The examination of products originating from third countries is a high priority of the 7-point consumer protection action plan announced last autumn. The NKFH and the government agencies under its professional guidance are firmly committed to consumer safety and are taking the necessary official measures to withdraw dangerous products from the market.