The National Institute of Metrology, Quality and Technology (INMETRO), issued ordinance Nº 99 on 7 March 2016, aims at prohibiting certification and marketing in Brazilian territory of Acqua Dots and Bindeez toys, or similar to names not yet identified, containing the substance 1,4-butanodiol in order to safeguard accidents. This ordinance shall enter into force on the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.

1, 4-butanediol (1,4-BDO in short) is a colorless, almost odorless, waxy solid to oily liquid and it’s flammable. It can irritate the airways when inhalation and irritate the skin when contact. It’s harmful when it is swallowed. 1, 4-BDO has wide spread industrial use. It has many derivatives such as THF, PTMEG, GBL and so on. It and its’ derivatives are used in the production of spandex fibers, urethaneelas tomers, and copolyester ethers pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, as well as cosmetics.

BACL Suggestion:

Brazil has already prohibited toys, especially for Acqua Dots toys and Bindeez, or similar toys, that contain the substance 1, 4-butanediol, imported into the country. BACL reminds that toy manufacturers and other parties concerned to control the intentional use of 1,4-butanediol and contaminated during production and seek for alternatives to guarantee safety of consumer.