Hull City Council issue warning about fake Labubu toys
The council says the counterfeit versions sold by rogue traders are poorly made
Parents are being urged to look out for fake Labubu toys after hundreds of the plush collectibles were seized in Hull.
The council says the counterfeit versions - sold by rogue traders - are poorly made, with detachable small parts that could choke young children.
Labubus, known for their mischievous grins and fang-like teeth, have become a global craze, with genuine versions often selling out.
But Hull City Council’s Trading Standards team says more dangerous copies are still likely on sale in shops.
"it is simply not worth the risk"
Officials say there are key differences to spot: genuine Labubu boxes have a matt finish with muted colours, a holographic POP MART sticker and a QR code.
Real toys have nine clearly defined triangular teeth, higher quality fur, airbrushed cheek blush and glossy embedded eyes.
Newer editions also have a UV-detectable seal on the right foot showing the silhouette of that model under UV light.
Shoppers are being advised to buy only from trusted sellers to avoid the potentially hazardous fakes.
Rachel Stephenson, Head of Public Protection, said: “These fakes can seem appealing. They might be cheaper or more easily available than the real thing, which can be tempting when children are desperate to get their hands on one.
"However, it is simply not worth the risk.
“These counterfeit toys are poorly made and haven’t been subject to the same standards and checks as the real thing.
"They can easily come apart, posing a serious choking hazard for small children. Our Trading Standards team would urge all parents to check products carefully, and only purchase those they’re certain are genuine”.