Major retailers halt sales of hazardous water bead toys for children

Amazon, Walmart, and Target have voluntarily stopped selling water beads marketed for children after concerns were raised by government officials, lawmakers, and public health professionals. Water beads, which can expand when exposed to liquid, pose significant health risks if ingested by young children, including severe discomfort, vomiting, dehydration, intestinal blockages, and life-threatening injuries. The Consumer Product Safety Commission has warned about the dangers of these toys and called for a ban. US Representative Frank Pallone Jr. has introduced legislation to implement a national ban on water beads marketed to kids. The companies have updated their policies and are removing listings for water beads marketed to children.