A chemical that may harm reproductive health was found at excessive levels in three Asda handbags. Shoppers were urged to stop using the bags.
Here's what to know
The nylon bags, priced from £8 to £12.50 ($10.55 to $16.49), were recalled and can be returned for a full refund, Birmingham Live reported.
Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate was present in excessive amounts, the Office for Product Safety and Standards found. It classified the products as presenting a serious chemical risk.
The burgundy quilted nylon camera bag had article number 1100258923 and barcode 5059206287215.
The zebra nylon phone bag had article number 1100258936 and barcode 5059206286553.
The brown quilted nylon camera bag had article number 1100264721 and barcode 5059206962396.
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More background
Asda's subsequent testing found phthalate levels may exceed regulatory limits. The retailer said the bags had passed all required tests at shipment, per Birmingham Live.
It explained that prolonged exposure above regulatory limits could pose health risks, including potential harm to the reproductive system. That is why restrictions apply to certain phthalates, including DEHP.
The Office for Product Safety and Standards warned that children's health could also be harmed.
Both Asda and the regulator said the products fail to comply with Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals regulations, Birmingham Live reported.
What can be done?
"We recommend that consumers stop using the products immediately," the Office for Product Safety and Standards said, according to Birmingham Live. "Return the products to any Asda store for a full refund."
Asda said a receipt is not required for a refund. Customers seeking further information can contact the company's customer relations department.
Asda said no injuries had been reported and that additional testing prompted the recall.
"While no safety incidents have been reported, we are taking this action to ensure compliance with applicable regulations and to maintain our commitment to consumer safety," it stated, per Birmingham Live.
Where can I learn more?
Consumers are becoming increasingly aware of chemicals in everyday products.
• After years of infertility, a man's sperm count rose 11-fold following plastic reductions.
• In Australia, grocery and kitchen swaps cut plastic chemical levels by up to 60% within a week.
• Sainsbury's and Argos recalled three Tu tote bags over chemical risks to children.
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