Overview
In 2007, as manufacturers recalled an unprecedented number of toys, many parents watched with anxiety, wondering how many other toxic toys remained on store shelves.
They were right to worry, but NJPIRG believs that New Jersey families should never have to worry about whether their children are playing with toxics.
Chemical Industry Fights Change
Although plenty of safer alternatives exist to replace these toxic chemicals, the chemical industry continues to market dangerous chemicals to manufacturers for intended use in all types of toys and products, from baby toys to bath books to baby bottles.
Several toy manufacturers are voluntarily using safer alternatives to replace dangerous chemicals in some products, but we need to make sure chemical suppliers stop marketing toxics to all toy manufacturers altogether.
A Toxic-Free Future Is Possible
At least fourteen countries, the European Union and the State of California have already banned or are phasing out phthalates to protect children’s health.
New Jersey must follow California’s lead by banning toxic chemicals, including phthalates, bisphenol-A, and lead from toys and other childcare products. Toxic-toys shouldn’t be an option here in New Jersey.
