The bright pink squishy dumpling toy has become one of the biggest viral toy trends of the year, filling social media feeds with cheerful unboxing videos and excited reactions. Across TikTok and other platforms, children, teens, and collectors have been opening plastic Dim Sum-style boxes, hoping to discover a special glittery version inside. The colorful design, cute face, and surprise element helped the toy spread quickly, turning it into a must-have item for many families. As demand grew, shops began stocking them rapidly, and the craze showed no signs of slowing down.
But with that popularity came a familiar problem: copycat versions started appearing on the market. The original toys were created by RMS International, but officials say many lookalike products have been sold as cheaper alternatives. At first glance, they may seem similar, especially to excited children who simply want the trending toy they have seen online. However, safety officials have warned that not all versions are made to the same standards, and parents are being encouraged to look more carefully before allowing children to play with them.
Concerns grew after Trading Standards officers in different parts of the UK inspected counterfeit versions of the dumpling squishies. Some products were found without basic safety details on the packaging, while others raised concerns because of their smell and materials. Glasgow officials reportedly seized thousands of counterfeit toys from a warehouse, while Swansea Council also issued a public warning after testing suspicious products. Officials said unsafe toys can sometimes cause issues such as headaches, nausea, skin irritation, breathing discomfort, or pose a choking risk for younger children.
The key warning sign parents are being told to watch for is a strong chemical smell, especially one similar to petrol. If a squishy dumpling toy has that kind of odor, officials advise throwing it away and not letting children use it. Parents should also check the packaging for a UKCA or CE mark, age guidance, safety instructions, warnings, and clear manufacturer details. Genuine RMS products should include this information. If those details are missing, the toy may be counterfeit and unsafe, so it is better to avoid using it.
