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The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has announced the recall of children’s mermaid costumes after testing revealed the presence of a prohibited phthalate. The recalled products include a glitter-accented dress and matching headband sold in children’s size XL.

According to the CPSC, the costumes contain a phthalate that violates federal restrictions. Phthalates can be harmful if ingested by young children and may pose potential health risks, prompting the agency to advise consumers to immediately stop using the affected costumes and remove them from children’s access.

The costumes were imported from China and sold exclusively through a major online retailer from March 2022 through July 2025.

“While the full health impacts of different phthalate exposures continue to be researched, several are widely suspected endocrine disruptors,” said Joe Frasca, Senior Vice President of Marketing at EMSL Analytical, Inc. “Exposure to elevated levels of these chemicals is a concern for anyone, but especially for children. Federal regulations in the United States restrict phthalates in certain childcare articles and toys because children can easily be exposed by handling or mouthing items that contain them.”

EMSL Analytical supports manufacturers, importers, retailers, regulatory agencies, and consumer safety advocates with comprehensive product and material testing services. The company’s scientists analyze products for phthalates and other regulated substances to help protect consumers and assist businesses in meeting compliance requirements, reducing the risk of recalls like this one.

To learn more about phthalates testing or additional consumer product, environmental, health, or safety analytical services, please visit www.EMSL.com, call (800) 220-3675, or email info@EMSL.com.

 

About EMSL Analytical, Inc.

EMSL Analytical is one of the leading testing laboratories with locations throughout the United States and Canada. EMSL is a nationally recognized and locally focused provider specializing in fast laboratory results for mold, bacteria, Legionella, USP <797>, pathogens, asbestos, lead, soot, char & ash from fires, VOCs, odors, radon, formaldehyde, indoor air quality, microbiology, environmental, industrial hygiene, radiological, food, beverage & consumer products, and material testing services for the identification of unknown substances. EMSL services both professionals and the general public. EMSL maintains an extensive list of accreditations from leading organizations as well as state and federal regulating bodies including, but not limited to A2LA, AIHA LAP, LLC. (AIHA EMLAP, AIHA IHLAP, AIHA ELLAP), NVLAP, CDC ELITE, CPSC, CA ELAP, NY ELAP, TX DOH, NJDEP and multiple other state accrediting agencies. Please visit our website at www.EMSL.com for a complete listing of accreditations. In addition, EMSL carries a wide range of Sampling Equipment and Investigative Products for environmental professionals.