EU bans raft of dangerous chemicals from toys

Childrens' toys need to comply as of Saturday with a new Europe-wide ban on dozens of chemical substances scientists say could trigger cancer, harm fertility or unleash allergies, the European Commission said.

"Substances which are carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic to reproduction as well as 55 allergenic fragrances are now banned from use in toys," the EU's executive arm said Friday.

The new restrictions covering the 28-state single EU market, home to around 80 million children and the world's biggest barrier-free economy, complete a host of safety regulations brought in two years ago.

They also impose labelling warnings for another 11 substances considered "potential allergens" and tighten limits for another 19 so-called metallic "heavy elements" such as lead or barium.

EU Industry Commissioner Antonio Tajani vowed that the Commission will not hesitate to bring forward further legislation as scientific assessments emerge.

Full details can be found at ec.europa.eu/enterprise/sectors/toys/index_en.htm

© 2013 AFP