Group warns vs toxic squeeze toy

MANILA, Philippines - An environment watchdog warned the public yesterday against a chicken squeeze toy sold locally, saying it contains harmful chemicals.              

Sweden recently withdrew from the market a toy from China called the “shrilling chicken,” which makes a piercing cry when squeezed, according to EcoWaste Coalition’s Thony Dizon.

“Many consumers may have bought the cute squeaky toy to give to young children during past Christmases,” Dizon said.

The group said the plastic used to make the chicken contains significant levels of short chain chlorinated paraffins, which may be carcinogenic; and phthalates, hormone-disrupting chemicals blamed for genital distortions, developmental abnormalities and other health issues.