Christmas shoppers have been warned to be on the lookout when buying for youngsters this festive season, after one doll sparked choking concerns.
A mother contacted Essex County Council's trading standards team after she bought two 'suitcase' dolls from a market which fell apart easily.
They revealing chemical granule sachets, small plastic discs and fibrous stuffing inside.
Trading Standards officers have arranged for the dolls and their contents to be tested by experts.
The chemical pouches, undoubtedly stuffed inside the doll to prevent mould growth, may contain the chemical dimethyl fumarate (DMF).
DMF is a powerful skin sensitiser and as well as having the potential to cause dermatitis and eczema, it is also associated with severe eye irritation and extreme fatigue.
The dolls are now subject to a voluntary product recall, with officers working with one known importer of the dolls located in Essex.
Cllr Roger Walters, Cabinet Member for responsibility for Trading Standards, said: "If any consumer has purchased one of these dolls and they are unsure whether it is affected by the recall, they are advised to pull gently at the feet or arms or head to see whether they come off, but do not touch or remove the chemical sachet inside.
"If it fails this basic test then it should be returned to the retailer for a refund.
"In any event parents and carers are advised not to give dolls of this description to children this Christmas."
