Investigation of the concentration of chemical compounds in toys

Document Type : Original Article

Author
Mehran Seifi
Student Research Committee, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
10.22034/ehpr.2026.554453.1004
Abstract
This study was conducted to investigate the concentration of hazardous chemical compounds in children's toys available in Iran, addressing a significant data gap in regional market surveillance and the associated health risks for a vulnerable population. Using a stratified random sampling approach, 120 toys categorized as plastic, painted wood, rubber, and plush were collected from retail and online sources. Samples were analyzed via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for heavy metals and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) for organic compounds, including phthalates and flame retardants. The results identified clear material-specific contamination patterns. Rubber toys presented the highest concentrations of phthalates, with di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) exceeding the European Union safety limit in 66.7% of samples. Painted wood toys showed elevated levels of lead and chromium, exceeding limits in 23.3% and 30.0% of samples, respectively. In contrast, plush toys demonstrated negligible chemical burdens. Statistical analysis confirmed significant differences between material categories, and a quantitative risk assessment indicated a potential health hazard (Hazard Quotient > 1) from exposure to lead in painted wood and DEHP in rubber toys. The conclusion underscores an urgent need for enhanced regulatory enforcement, focusing on high-risk material categories, alongside policies promoting supply chain transparency and the adoption of safer alternative materials in toy manufacturing to protect children's health.

Graphical Abstract

Investigation of the concentration of chemical compounds in toys

Highlights

·       Rubber toys show the highest phthalate levels

·       Painted wood toys contain elevated lead, chromium

·       Plush toys safest; comply with all limits

·       Regulatory gaps found in high-risk categories

·       Material type dictates chemical exposure risk

Keywords
Chemical Exposure
Children's Health
GC-MS Analysis
Heavy Metals
Phthalates
Toy Safety
Subjects
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Environmental Health and Pollution Research
Volume 1, Issue 1
Winter 2026
Pages 43-48

  • Receive Date 20 October 2025
  • Revise Date 01 January 2026
  • Accept Date 01 January 2026
  • First Publish Date 01 January 2026
  • Publish Date 01 January 2026