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Alarms that many Halloween products contain too high levels of toxic substances raise the question of whether masks and fake blood must be thrown away. But wearing a mask on occasional occasions is perfectly safe, says the Chemicals Inspectorate’s expert.
Just in time for the year’s biggest masquerade celebration, the Chemicals Inspectorate recently issued a warning that 20 percent of the Halloween items examined contained excessively high levels of toxic substances. Among other things, it was about phthalates and bisphenol A, which are used in plastics.
After the alarm, P4 Östergötland, among others, reported on traders who threw away quantities of Halloween items. But how worried should you be? Not so bad, says Frida Ramström, inspector at the Chemicals Inspectorate.
– None of these substances are acutely dangerous. There is no panic if you or a child puts on a mask with high levels in it. The problem is that the substances can be found in many products and together they can be harmful in the long run.
Does not comply with EU regulations
Those who bought their Halloween costumes or decorations from a large chain of well-known brands usually do not need to worry at all. For those who, on the other hand, bought something from a website based outside the EU, the risk is higher that the manufacturer did not follow the rules that apply here.
Most commonly, toxic substances are found in soft, slightly thicker plastic, such as is found in rubber ducks or some doll heads.
– Sometimes they smell strongly of plastic and can almost feel a little greasy on the surface. But it is almost impossible for a consumer to know which things are involved. It is the companies’ responsibility that these should not be sold in Sweden, says Frida Ramström.
Washing does no good
It does not help to wash off the plastic items, the substances remain and are released over a long period.
– You should be more careful around small children because they often put things in their mouths. Then it is good to choose things that you know are checked and approved.
Anyone who wants to throw away masks or decorations made of plastic must throw it in a combustible. If electronics are involved, they must be disposed of in electronic waste.
Anyone who wants to increase the pressure on companies must make demands when shopping.
– We notice that those who import and sell care about what the customers want. If there is a requirement that the products be within the regulatory framework, the companies will do it too, says Frida Ramström.
FACTS 300 products tested
The Chemicals Inspectorate examined around 300 products, of which around 40 were Halloween items. A total of 15 percent of them contained excessively high levels of substances such as lead and phthalates.
Among the Halloween products, a full 20 percent contained excessive levels of dangerous substances – including face masks and decorations.
The products from online marketplaces contained the most dangers. According to the Chemicals Inspectorate, this is probably due to the fact that they are sold by companies outside the EU and do not meet the requirements set here.
According to the Chemicals Inspectorate, it is best to choose goods from well-known brands and well-established companies.
Phthalates were the most common substance found, found in soft PVC plastic in, for example, dolls and bath toys. Other substances found were cadmium, boron and bisphenol A and lead.
Source: The Swedish Chemicals Agency
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