Children’s slime toys can be toxic: Ministry

Manama : Parents have been warned about children’s ‘slime’ toys, as it is believed to contain toxic chemicals.

Industry, Commerce and Tourism Ministry recently announced that the substances used in the manufacturing of these toys have been proven to be risky for children’s health.

“Such chemical substances used in manufacturing these toys could be a threat to children’s health,” the ministry said in a statement.

“The homemade slime is dangerous due to the materials used in its manufacturing. It contains gum, boric acid, washing powders, toothpastes and other materials. Children are following the instructions to play with the slime from YouTube and other social media networks, without realising the danger of these materials,” said Muna Al Alawi, Head of Standards Application and Quality Assurance Department at the Ministry.

“Boric acid, which is usually used to wash clothes, is harmful and shouldn’t be touched directly. It has been classified as one of the main harmful substances to reproductive health and growth by the European Union in 2010. This substance is so toxic that it’s being used in manufacturing pesticides. It’s generally recommended to avoid exposure to this substance as much as possible,” Al Alawi continued.

The official also noted that the strong odour of slime toys, is harmful to children’s respiratory systems if inhaled extensively.

Slime toys are being sold at some toy stores in the Kingdom and through online shopping sites.