Viral Toy Sparks Burn Lawsuits After Microwave Mishaps

NeeDoh, a popular brand of squishy fidget toys, is at the center of a controversy involving severe burn risks. A viral trend on TikTok encouraged users to microwave the toys, which, according to a proposed class action lawsuit, can cause them to rupture and eject dangerously hot adhesive liquid. This misuse has reportedly resulted in children suffering second- and third-degree burns, hospitalizations, and permanent scarring.

The lawsuit claims that Schylling, the manufacturer, failed to provide adequate warnings about the potential hazards of heating the NeeDoh products. While the company has since added warnings stating "Do NOT heat, freeze, or microwave, may cause personal injury," the trend persists. Medical professionals, like Dr. Emily Werthman from Johns Hopkins Burn Center, have observed an increase in such injury cases. Furthermore, even without intentional heating, the toys can pose a burn risk if left in hot cars or exposed to direct sunlight.