Researchers Propose Advanced Chemical Testing to Enhance Children's Toy Safety
TL;DR
Enhancements to chemical migration testing give a competitive edge by ensuring safer toys and meeting global standards.
Chemical migration testing methods are improved by adjusting temperature, pH, and simulant choices for accurate risk assessment.
By creating safer toys through enhanced testing, the world fosters a healthier environment for children globally.
Researchers propose adjustments to testing methods, using advanced technologies to detect chemicals and improve safety standards.
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Researchers have proposed critical enhancements to chemical migration testing methods for children's toys, highlighting significant gaps in current safety assessment protocols. The study, published in Frontiers of Environmental Science & Engineering, recommends more comprehensive and realistic approaches to evaluating potential chemical hazards in children's products.
The research identifies key limitations in existing testing standards, particularly the European EN 71-10 guideline. Current protocols often use unrealistic conditions that may underestimate chemical migration risks. For instance, standard tests typically use water at 20°C, which fails to replicate actual physiological conditions.
Proposed improvements include adjusting testing temperatures to 37°C, using artificial saliva and more advanced simulants, and extending contact duration to better capture long-term exposure risks. The researchers advocate for utilizing high-resolution mass spectrometry to detect chemicals at lower concentrations and adopting a more holistic approach that considers interactions between multiple substances.
Dr. Elvis Genbo Xu, the study's corresponding author, emphasized the importance of developing more comprehensive testing protocols. The research underscores the need for global collaboration to harmonize safety standards and ensure consistent protection for children worldwide.
The potential implications are significant. By implementing more accurate testing methods, manufacturers can more effectively assess and mitigate chemical exposure risks in toys. This approach could substantially improve child safety and provide parents with greater confidence in the products their children use.
The study was funded by the Nordic Exposure Group (NEXPO) under the Nordic Council of Ministers, reflecting growing international concern about chemical safety in consumer products, especially those designed for children.
Curated from 24-7 Press Release
