Recently, the Consumer Council released a safety inspection report on pet toys, with 9 rubber and latex pet toy samples performing well overall. 97% of the samples met the European safety standards for children's toys in terms of specific element migration. The inspection covered 19 specific elements and conducted comprehensive screening for harmful substances such as plasticizers, free formaldehyde, and prohibited azo dyes. The results showed that no plasticizers, free formaldehyde, or prohibited azo dyes were detected in any of the rubber samples. Only one rubber sample contained trace amounts of hexavalent chromium, with a migration level of 0.0362 mg/kg, which was below the standard limit, indicating overall controllable chemical safety.
The Consumer Council also reminds that rubber and latex toys, while durable, can still break or crack from prolonged chewing. If peeling, tearing, or hole enlargement occurs, immediate discontinuation and disposal are necessary to prevent pets from ingesting fragments, which could cause intestinal blockage or lacerations. Additionally, toys tend to accumulate saliva, dirt, and bacteria during regular use, so regular cleaning and drying are recommended to avoid microbial growth and secondary health risks. At the industry level, the Consumer Council advises manufacturers to prioritize food-grade or high-grade eco-friendly materials, optimize vulcanization and molding processes to minimize heavy metal and harmful substance residues at the source. Simultaneously, product labeling should be improved to clearly indicate suitable pet sizes, chew resistance levels, and replacement reminders, aiding consumers in making informed purchases. As pet product standards gradually align with children's toy safety requirements, enhancing quality control, product durability, and safety not only meets regulatory compliance but also safeguards pet health and builds market trust.
