Study finds alarming levels of heavy metals in toys sold in Bangladesh

More than 70% of plastic toys sold in Bangladesh contain heavy metals beyond global safety limits, putting children at risk of long-term health damage, according to a new study released by the Environment and Social Development Organisation (ESDO).

The study titled "Toxic Playtime: Uncovering Heavy Metals in Children's Plastic Toys" examined 70 hard plastic toys from Chawkbazar, Dhaka's main toy market, using advanced x-ray fluorescence technology sourced from the Philippines.

Tests revealed alarming levels of contamination.

Many toys contained chromium, lead, mercury and cadmium far above international safety thresholds. Some exceeded limits by 10 to 70 times.

One toy car from Aman Toy Garden contained Lead at 2,350 parts per million (ppm), Mercury at 1,080 ppm and Chromium at 1,400 ppm, all many times higher than allowed.

Locally made toys more dangerous

The study collected toys from 18 local manufacturers, two Chinese companies and five unbranded sources. Locally made toys were found to be more toxic than imported ones.

Bright and colourful toys tested were found to be the most contaminated. Around 20% of the samples contained harmful PVC plastic and flame retardants, adding to the danger.

Toys aimed at children under five were the focus, as this age group is most vulnerable due to frequent mouthing behaviour and immature detoxification systems.

Dr Toshiba Rahman, a consultant at Dhaka Medical College Hospital, said exposure to toxic metals hinders brain development and reduces learning ability, speech development and emotional regulation in children.

She noted that two out of every ten children at her clinic show symptoms linked to heavy metal exposure. Many have a history of playing with cheap and colourful plastic toys.

Experts highlight regulatory gaps, demand urgent action

Toy producers offered varying explanations, with some denying responsibility and others admitting gaps in quality control.

Tofayel Ahamed, General Manager of Aman Plastic Toys Industries, said their products are tested in-house and cleared for export, claiming the contaminated toys might have come from other sources.

Parvez Hossen, manager at Karim Toys, admitted that they do not test for harmful substances and that regulatory approvals are handled by the owner.

Syed Marghub Morshed, chairperson of ESDO, said the findings expose a regulatory failure. He urged the government to implement strict standards and hold manufacturers accountable.

Dr Shahriar Hossain of ESDO highlighted that toys are essential for growth, but now have become a threat. He called for urgent efforts to eliminate toxic substances from children's products.

Echoing the concern, Professor Md Abul Hashem of Jahangirnagar University warned, "These results confirm our fears. We are exposing our children to neurotoxins and carcinogens that may cause irreversible harm."

Siddika Sultana, executive director of ESDO, said this is not just a public health issue but a violation of children's rights. She demanded immediate protective measures.

A BSTI official present at the event said they are reviewing existing testing protocols and will take the findings into account.