Water beads, which can expand up to 400 times their original size when exposed to liquid, are marketed to fulfil a variety of different purposes, including being used as a toy, or in crafting, home decor and floristry.
The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) issued the safety alert advising that water beads should be kept away from young children, under 5 years of age, and only used with older children or vulnerable adults under close supervision.
The warning highlights the harms caused by the dehydrated bead/s when swallowed that can expand post-ingestion, causing a blockage along the gastrointestinal (GI) digestive tract requiring surgical removal. Additionally, a hydrated or dehydrated bead can cause asphyxiation from aspiration if swallowed.
If it is suspected that a water bead has been swallowed, medical help should be sought immediately.
