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07/12/2009
Go Go Hamster Safe, Says Maker
The manufacturer of a hit Christmas toy has defended its safety.
Cepia said today that Mr Squiggles the Go Go Hamster - which is on Santa's list for most UK children and was at the centre of a health scare last week - is safe for use.
The move came after the US consumer organisation GoodGuide alleged the toy contained potentially dangerous levels of a toxic chemical.
GoodGuide, a consumer testing research lab in San Francisco, alleged the battery-powered furry animals had high levels of antimony on the toy's nose and hair, which "may be linked to cancer, lung and heart problems".
Cepia today rejected claims that the chemical found on one of its Go Go Hamsters toys was at possibly dangerous levels.
The firm also said that the Mr Squiggles toy had passed "the most rigorous testing in the toy industry".
Russ Hornsby, Chief Executive of the firm Cepia LLC, said in a statement: "We want to assure everyone already enjoying Mr Squiggles or other Zhu Zhu Pets, and those planning to purchase Mr Squiggles or another Zhu Zhu Pet this holiday season, that the toy is 100% safe and in compliance with all US and European toy safety standards.
"I have been in the toy industry for more than 35 years, and being a father of children myself, I would never allow any substandard or unsafe product to hit the shelves.
"That's why we always test to not only meet but also exceed safety standards."
The £9.99 battery-powered furry toy - which whizzes about the floor and squeaks when its nose is poked - has been one of the most in-demand children's gifts in the UK this Christmas, with several major retailers reporting shortages.
As well as Mr Squiggles, there are three other models of the toy pet - Chunk, Num Nums and Pipsqueak.
(LB/BMCC)
Cepia said today that Mr Squiggles the Go Go Hamster - which is on Santa's list for most UK children and was at the centre of a health scare last week - is safe for use.
The move came after the US consumer organisation GoodGuide alleged the toy contained potentially dangerous levels of a toxic chemical.
GoodGuide, a consumer testing research lab in San Francisco, alleged the battery-powered furry animals had high levels of antimony on the toy's nose and hair, which "may be linked to cancer, lung and heart problems".
Cepia today rejected claims that the chemical found on one of its Go Go Hamsters toys was at possibly dangerous levels.
The firm also said that the Mr Squiggles toy had passed "the most rigorous testing in the toy industry".
Russ Hornsby, Chief Executive of the firm Cepia LLC, said in a statement: "We want to assure everyone already enjoying Mr Squiggles or other Zhu Zhu Pets, and those planning to purchase Mr Squiggles or another Zhu Zhu Pet this holiday season, that the toy is 100% safe and in compliance with all US and European toy safety standards.
"I have been in the toy industry for more than 35 years, and being a father of children myself, I would never allow any substandard or unsafe product to hit the shelves.
"That's why we always test to not only meet but also exceed safety standards."
The £9.99 battery-powered furry toy - which whizzes about the floor and squeaks when its nose is poked - has been one of the most in-demand children's gifts in the UK this Christmas, with several major retailers reporting shortages.
As well as Mr Squiggles, there are three other models of the toy pet - Chunk, Num Nums and Pipsqueak.
(LB/BMCC)
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Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
