Action recalls Stretch Squad toys after asbestos found in sand filling
Action has recalled Stretch Squad pull-apart toy figures after traces of asbestos were found in the sand filling, amid a wider investigation into asbestos in children’s play sand in the Netherlands.
The recall covers Stretch Squad “uittrekbare” figures sold between April 22, 2024, and Feb. 13, 2026. The toys were sold both individually and in a four-pack. Action said testing confirmed that the sand filling in the four-pack contains traces of asbestos. The individually sold versions are still under investigation but were removed from stores as a precaution and are included in the recall.
Action warned that the sand filling “can pose a health risk if the product becomes damaged and the filling comes out.” The company said the likelihood of health risks appears small if the toy remains intact and the sand does not escape, but advised consumers not to use the toys.
Customers are being asked to return the products to an Action store. The retailer said it will refund the full purchase price, even without a receipt.
The recall follows growing concern about asbestos in children’s play sand. Dutch food safety authorities began investigating the issue after a major incident in Australia, where more than 70 public schools were closed after the Australian consumer authority recalled several children’s sand products over possible asbestos contamination. The products were traced to China.
Scrutiny increased last week after the newspaper Algemeen Dagblad reported the results of its own investigation. The paper had 12 play sand products tested in a laboratory and found asbestos in six of them. The products were purchased from retailers including Top1Toys, Bol.com, Amazon, and AliExpress, as well as wholesaler Koppen Speelgoed. Following those findings, Bol.com and Kruidvat said they would temporarily stop selling children’s play sand as a precaution.
