Toxic substances discovered in 13 out of 28 school shoe brands available in Hong Kong markets
In a recent announcement, the Consumer Council has raised concerns about the safety of primary school shoes and child car seats sold in Hong Kong. The tests conducted on 28 models of primary school shoes revealed that 13 of them contain harmful substances, including chromium VI, a carcinogen linked to lung cancer, and other toxicants such as aromatic amines, formaldehyde, and phthalates.
The findings are particularly concerning as four of the tested school shoe models have chromium VI levels exceeding international safety limits. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies chromium VI as a Group 1 "carcinogenic to humans" agent.
To ensure the safety of consumers, especially parents buying primary school shoes, the Consumer Council advises avoiding models that exceed safety limits for chromium VI or phthalates. Four models tested had levels surpassing European Union safety thresholds, with one having phthalate levels 86 times above the limit, posing greater risks especially for children with wounds or eczema on their feet.
The tests also showed some shoes had poor material adhesion, low abrasion resistance, or cracked after repeated use, which may affect both safety and foot health.
In light of these findings, consumers are encouraged to prioritize shoes that are free from harmful chemical levels exceeding safety standards and offer reliable durability and foot support. When selecting shoes, consider those designed for children’s healthy foot development, such as podiatrist-recommended shoes with features like wide toe boxes, breathable materials, cushioned insoles, and secure fit systems.
In addition to the school shoes, the Consumer Council also tested 22 child car seat models sold locally. Three of these models were found to have weaker crash protection. The Council urges manufacturers to improve their materials and design to better protect children’s health.
The Consumer Council has published these results ahead of the start of the new school year, providing valuable information for parents and consumers. The tested school shoes cost between HK$198 and HK$599, and the tested child car seat models ranged in price.
The tests were performed by the Consumer Council to ensure the safety of consumer products. The Council has found harmful substances in more primary school shoe models than previously reported, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and caution when buying these products.
References: [1] Consumer Council (2022). Primary School Shoes Containing Harmful Substances. Retrieved from https://www.consumer.org.hk/en/news/pressreleases/2022/07/primary-school-shoes-containing-harmful-substances/ [2] Consumer Council (2022). Child Car Seats with Weaker Crash Protection. Retrieved from https://www.consumer.org.hk/en/news/pressreleases/2022/07/child-car-seats-with-weaker-crash-protection/ [5] Consumer Council (2022). Choosing Safe and Healthy School Shoes. Retrieved from https://www.consumer.org.hk/en/news/pressreleases/2022/07/choosing-safe-and-healthy-school-shoes/
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