Next has issued an urgent recall on some of its footwear amid concerns they could cause cancer. In a safety warning the Office for Product Safety and Standards said the three designs of Wellington boot posed a chemical risk as it contained "excessive concentrations of phthalates".
It warned: "The product presents a chemical risk as it contains a restricted phthalate (DBP) at concentrations in excess of the legal limit. Phthalates can potentially harm children’s health either via cancer or non-cancer effects and may cause the child to have long term health implications."
Those boots which are affected were all made in China. The affected boot designs are:
Girls Black Gloss Wellington Boot with Buckle: PSD Reference Number 2306-0139; Next Item Number U13037
Children’s Matt Black Plain Wellington Boot: PSD Reference Number 2306-0142; Next Item Number U19513
Children’s Stripy Wellington Boot: PSD Reference Number 2306-0143; Next Item NumberA72563
The product has been recalled by Next. The warning said the chain was contacting affected customers directly.