The Finnish Safety and Chemicals Agency, Tukes, has reported the discovery of asbestos in a children's toy that includes sand, specifically in a drawing tablet. This item was available for purchase on the AliExpress online marketplace, and following the discovery, Tukes has informed AliExpress, which has since removed the product from its listings. Consumers who may have purchased this drawing tablet are being advised to stop using it immediately and return it due to potential health risks associated with asbestos exposure.

In a series of tests conducted by Tukes, a total of fourteen products intended for children's play that contained sand were analyzed. The tests revealed that two of these products, specifically the drawing tablet and a craft kit, contained asbestos fibers, including chrysotile and tremolite. Most of the tested products, however, were found to be free from asbestos. The agency took samples of these items to the Finnish Institute of Occupational Health, which conducted the analysis to detect the presence of asbestos fibers, highlighting the importance of ensuring safety in children’s toys.

Asbestos fibers pose serious health risks when inhaled, potentially leading to conditions such as asbestosis and lung cancer. The announcement underscores the necessity of vigilant monitoring and regulation of products intended for children to prevent harmful exposures. The incident exemplifies the ongoing challenges of ensuring product safety in consumer markets, particularly with items sourced from international suppliers like AliExpress.