One of the most popular toys this holiday season is Aqua Dots sold by Australia-based Moose Enterprises.  Aqua Dots is a set of beads that can be arranged into designs and fused when sprayed with water.  The toy was pulled from shelves in North America and Australia after scientists found they contain a chemical that converts into the so-called date rape drug when eaten.

A chemical coating on the beads can turn into the drug gamma hydroxy butyrate when ingested.  The compound made from common and easily available ingredients, can induce unconsciousness, seizures, drowsiness, coma and death.  Two children in the US and three in Australia were hospitalized after swallowing the beads.

This is another product made in China - Mattel, Inc. recalled more than 21 million Chinese-made toys earlier this year.    Retailer Toys “R” Us Inc. issued a “stop sale” order in the US and on its website.

With the recent issues on products made in China, parents should carefully inspect and investigate their holiday selections before they make a purchase.