A magnetic game sold on TikTok has been recalled after being deemed a serious safety hazard, Wiltshire Council has warned.
The chess game – sold as the Magnetic Chess Intelligence Strategy Game – poses a significant risk of internal injury due to its powerful magnets, which can cause serious harm if swallowed.
The recalled item, which was made in China, is packaged in a blue box and has been identified with item number 8889 and barcodes 524121701040200301 and BCD20241223035826.
Tests revealed that the magnets contained in the toy have a magnetic flux index exceeding the legal limit under the Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011.
A Wiltshire trading standards spokesperson said: “The product presents a serious risk of injuries as it contains small magnets with a magnetic flux index greater than the permitted level.
“Small, high-powered magnetic products can easily be swallowed and, when ingested, have the potential to cause serious internal injuries within the gastrointestinal tract.”
The Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) previously issued a Product Safety Alert relating to the dangers posed by small, powerful magnets, which can be found in toys, jewellery, novelty items, and desk ornaments.
This follows reports of serious injuries, particularly among children and teenagers, after swallowing these magnets. In some cases, ingestion has resulted in emergency surgery.
The product listing has now been removed from TikTok’s online marketplace, and consumers are urged to stop using the item immediately.
Wiltshire Council advised parents to keep similar toys away from children and watch for symptoms such as vomiting and stomach pain, which may indicate accidental ingestion.
Medical treatment should be sought urgently if a magnet is suspected to have been swallowed.
