Trouble in Toyland: What to Look Out For

November 25 2008

Just in time for the holiday shopping season, there's "Trouble in Toyland" again. Vermont's Public Interest Research Group, VPIRG, released its annual report on toys you should pay extra attention too. Before you head out to the malls, there are three hidden hazards to keep in mind.

"We go out to places where consumers shop all the time and just pick a slew of just really popular, common toys, and then test them," Claire Howard said, she's a Field Associate for VPIRG.

VPIRG's message is buyer beware. First thing to watch out for is dangerous toxins.

"One of the risks in children's toys is a chemical called phthalates, phthalates can be found in toys such as this popular Pony Land toy anywhere where you find that a toy has a characteristic of soft and pliable plastic," Howard said.

Howard says exposure to the toxin can lead to development or reproductive issues. Similar threats can be found with lead. It's the second...

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