Full Breakdown
Urgent Recall of Coloured Sand Products Due to Asbestos Contamination Fears
11/12/2025, 10:45:22 PM
Overview of the Recall
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) in New Zealand has initiated an urgent recall of two coloured sand products: EC Rainbow Sand (1.3kg) and Creatistics – Coloured Sand (1kg). This action follows independent testing in Australia that confirmed the presence of tremolite asbestos, a hazardous substance, in similar products. The recall affects items sold at various retailers, including Paper Plus, Hobby Land, NZ School Shop, Office Products Depot, Discount Office, Acquire, and Qizzle, as well as some online platforms.
Health and Safety Guidelines
MBIE's Product Safety Spokesperson Ian Caplin emphasized the seriousness of the situation, urging consumers to stop using the affected products immediately. He advised that the sand should be contained in a sealed container and stored securely away from people. For safe disposal, consumers are instructed to engage a Class A licensed asbestos removalist. Schools and early childhood centers that have used the sand are advised to block off affected areas and refrain from vacuuming or sweeping where the sand was present. They should contact a licensed asbestos assessor for immediate guidance and notify the Ministry of Education.
Background of the Contamination
The recall is a precautionary measure prompted by laboratory tests that detected traces of tremolite asbestos in the coloured sand products. Asbestos is recognized as a serious health hazard, and its presence in children's products has raised significant concerns. The MBIE is collaborating with Health New Zealand, the Ministry of Education, and WorkSafe to ensure consumer safety and provide guidance to educational facilities.
Official Statements & Responses
In a statement, Ian Caplin remarked, “We are taking immediate precautionary action while we establish the extent and risk of the potentially contaminated product.” He reiterated the importance of consumer safety and the need for immediate action by those who have purchased the products.
Criticism & Opposition
While the recall has been largely supported by health officials, some critics have raised concerns about the delay in issuing the recall and the potential exposure risk to consumers and children. The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has also issued a recall for similar products sold in Australia, highlighting the widespread nature of the issue.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There is a discrepancy in the timeline regarding when the affected products were sold. The ACCC indicates that the products were available in Australia between 2020 and 2025, while the MBIE has not specified a similar timeframe for New Zealand sales. Additionally, the extent of contamination and the number of products affected remain unclear, as further testing is ongoing.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We urge anyone who has bought these products, either for personal use or potential use in a school or other setting, to act immediately.” — Ian Caplin, MBIE Product Safety Spokesperson
- “Asbestos is a serious health hazard and we are working with Health New Zealand, the Ministry of Education and WorkSafe to provide guidance for consumers and educational facilities,” — Ian Caplin, MBIE Product Safety Spokesperson
This recall serves as a critical reminder of the importance of consumer vigilance regarding product safety, particularly in items intended for children. Further updates will be provided as investigations continue.
