A range of sand toys sold in Tesco stores across the Republic of Ireland have been recalled due to the potential presence of asbestos, the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) announced on Thursday.
The recall, initiated by Addo Play Ltd, affects multiple products sold under the ‘Out to Impress’ and ‘Paw Patrol’ brands. The CCPC warned that the sand within these toys may contain the hazardous substance, which is banned across the European Union due to its known health risks.
The affected ‘Out to Impress’ products include “Out to Impress Sand Art Creations” (barcode 5056289422434, item number 318-19149-B) and “Out to Impress Creative Candles Craft Set” (barcode 5056289428429, item number 318-19180-B). The ‘Paw Patrol’ products subject to the recall are “Paw Patrol Sand Art Pictures” (barcode 5056289425770, item number 320-14142-N) and “Paw Patrol Bumper Craft Collection” (barcode 5056289425800, item number 320-14145-N).
Exposure to asbestos, even in small quantities, can lead to serious health problems, including respiratory illnesses and lung conditions. The Office for Product Safety and Standards in the UK issued a similar recall notice for the “Paw Patrol Bumper Craft Collection” on March 4, 2026, citing the presence of asbestos in the sand.
The CCPC is advising consumers who have purchased these products to immediately cease their use. If the sand remains in its original packaging, it should be placed in a heavy-duty plastic bag, securely sealed, clearly labelled, and stored in a location inaccessible to children. Consumers are then instructed to contact their local authority for guidance on proper collection, and disposal.
For sand that has already been used, the CCPC recommends cleaning affected areas with wet cloths to prevent dust generation, while wearing gloves and a protective mask. The used sand, along with the gloves, mask, and cloths, should be double-bagged, securely sealed, labelled, and stored out of reach of children, before contacting the local authority for disposal advice.
Consumers are also advised to keep children and others away from areas where the sand has been used until a thorough cleaning has been completed. Tesco is offering full refunds for the recalled products, and a receipt is not required to obtain a refund. Customers can contact Tesco Customer Services at 1800 248 123 for further information.
Addo Play Ltd has stated that the overall risk is considered low, but is issuing the recall as a precautionary measure, as asbestos should not be present in any amount. The products were sold in Tesco stores between September 2024 and February 2026, and also through The Entertainer, Hobbycraft, M&S, Moonpig and British Garden Centres stores and websites.
