Asda Toy Recall Highlights Importance of Vigilance Around Contaminated Consumer Products

UKATA is aware of the recent product recall issued by Asda concerning specific children’s toys found to contain a sand-like material that may include trace levels of asbestos. The recall follows testing which identified a potential contaminant. While Asda has stated that the overall health risk is considered low, the action has been taken as a precautionary measure, as asbestos should not be present in consumer products in any quantity.

According to the original recall notice published by Asda, the affected products are:

• Stretcherz “Stretch Squad” Assortment
  Barcode: 5050837662419
  Sold between January 2024 and February 2026
• Stretcherz “Slammerz” Assortment
  Barcode: 5050835105345
  Sold between January 2025 and February 2026

Customers are advised to stop using the toys immediately and keep them away from children. The items can be returned to any Asda store for a full refund, with no receipt required. For further information, customers can contact Asda Customer Relations on 0330 053 0111, visit the Asda Product Recall page, or contact the manufacturer, HTI Group, via sand.enquiries@htigroup.com or through its online enquiry portal.

This recall follows recent international reporting concerning asbestos contamination in children’s play materials and reinforces an important message, although asbestos is banned in the United Kingdom, contamination can still occur in rare circumstances through raw materials or international supply chains.

As outlined in UKATA’s recent piece on asbestos risks in non-traditional products, contamination can arise where materials are sourced from regions with naturally occurring asbestos deposits or where quality control standards differ. While such incidents remain uncommon, they demonstrate why supply chain assurance, product traceability and proportionate risk management are essential.

It is important to stress that the presence of trace asbestos does not automatically equate to significant exposure risk. Asbestos risk depends on fibre release and inhalation over time. However, any confirmed presence in consumer goods, particularly those intended for children warrants immediate precautionary action.

UKATA fully supports proactive recall measures where potential contamination is identified. Prompt action helps protect the public and prevent unnecessary exposure.

Educational and childcare settings routinely purchase products such as play sands, craft materials and sensory items. These goods are often manufactured overseas, meaning quality controls can vary widely.

For UK dutyholders, the key considerations are:

• Supply chain assurance: ensuring products come from reputable, traceable sources.
• Awareness of unusual risks: recognising when a product looks inconsistent or poorly labelled.
• Competent escalation: knowing how and when to raise concerns.
• Proportionate response: avoiding unnecessary alarm while still prioritising safety.

UKATA will continue to monitor developments and provide factual, proportionate guidance to members and the wider public. Maintaining awareness, without causing unnecessary alarm, remains central to effective asbestos risk management.

Please note that UKATA’s role is to audit and manage our training providers, and we’re unable to give advice on individual domestic situations; if you remain concerned, we would strongly recommend seeking guidance from a suitably qualified asbestos professional or your local authority.

UKATA, a leading association, is dedicated to enhancing the quality and standards of asbestos training with the aim to shield workers and the public from the hazards of asbestos exposure.

The association collaborates closely with its members to guarantee that they have access to the latest information, training resources, and industry updates. They provide a suite of support services to assist them in accomplishing their training objectives. Their membership encompasses a diverse array of organisations involved in asbestos training, including training providers, asbestos removal contractors, consultants, and equipment suppliers.

UKATA is fervent about promoting safe and responsible working practices, committed to working with members and partners to realise a shared vision of protecting workers and the public from the hazards linked with asbestos exposure.