2021 Trouble in Toyland report

Posted on November 12, 2021
A common thread through this year’s report is that toys sold online – or second-hand – are sometimes not subject to the same regulations as their more credible – albeit expensive – name-brand counterparts. (Photo courtesy illinoispirg.org)

By Dave Dahl

SPRINGFIELD – Anybody who is making a list and checking it twice may want to consult the 2021 Trouble in Toyland report.

“Recalled products still for sale, dangerous products like high-powered magnet sets being marketed to families,” said Nancy Cowles, executive director of Kids in Danger, said at an announcement Thursday, “and the Wild West that is online shopping for many parents; never quite sure if what you are going to get is going to be a safe product or not.”

Abe Scarr, of the Illinois Public Interest Research Group, describes one popular toy which has inspired unsafe imitations. “It’s the GoPop!, originally sold by Foxmind,” he said of the fidget-friendly, push-pop toy. “Because it’s been so popular, there are hundreds of less expensive knock-offs found online or in retail stores.”

Scarr says those off-brand GoPo P! toys could contain dangerous levels of chemicals.

A common thread through this year’s report is that toys sold online – or second-hand – are sometimes not subject to the same regulations as their more credible – albeit expensive – name-brand counterparts.

Trouble In Toyland | Illinois PIRG

Dave Dahl can be reached at [email protected]

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