A consumer testing laboratory in San Francisco has alleged that a £10 children’s toy on wish lists for Christmas may contain high levels of a toxic chemical that could pose a health risk.

The Guardian reports that US consumer watchdog GoodGuide found high levels of the chemical antimony in the furry hair and nose of the wind-up toy. Scientists say antimony has been linked to cancer as well as lung and heart problems.

The scientists tested toys in the US called Zhu Zhu pets, which are identical to products sold in the UK as the Mr Squiggle Go Go Hamster retailing at £9.99. Retailers have seen a surge in sales in the weeks leading up to Christmas – the toy is able to ‘explore’ its surroundings and responds to touch. Coupled with the modest price tag, this has made it a winner for children and parents alike.

Professor Dara O'Rourke from the environmental science department at the University of California – who is head of GoodGuide – said that ‘multiple tests’ on three of the furry toys ‘revealed potential health risks’.

‘The chemical in question, antimony, was measured at 93 parts per million in the "fur" and at 106 parts per million in the nose of the Mr Squiggle hamsters,’ said Prof O’Rourke.

‘Both readings exceed the allowable level of 60 parts per million under US regulations.’

Chief executive of the firm that makes the toys – Cepia – has said that the toys are ‘perfectly safe’

In a statement Russ Hornsby reassured consumers:

‘We want to assure everyone already enjoying Mr Squiggles or other Zhu Zhu Pets – and those planning to purchase Mr Squiggles or another Zhu Zhu Pet this holiday season – that the toy is 100 per cent safe and in compliance with all US and European toy safety standards.

‘I have been in the toy industry for more than 35 years, and being a father of children myself I would never allow any substandard or unsafe product to hit the shelves.

‘That's why we always test to not only meet but also exceed safety standards,’ said Mr Hornsby.

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