Hygienic and sociological assessment of toys for children aged 1-5 years on the market of Armenian Republic

Abstract

Introduction Toys play an essential role in the physical, cognitive, and social development of kids. However, they may also serve as a significant source of microorganisms, synthetic surfactants, and other chemical compounds. Children aged 1-5 years frequently place toys in their mouths, making oral contact one of the primary routes of exposure to hazardous substances. Inadequate hygiene and poor quality of toy materials may therefore contribute to increased risks of infectious diseases, allergic reactions, and other adverse health effects in early childhood. Aim of the study To conduct a hygienic assessment of selected toys intended for children aged 1-5 years available on the market of the Republic of Armenia and to perform a sociological survey. Material and methods The study consisted of two components: a sociological survey and a hygienic assessment. The sociological component included a survey of 114 parents of children aged 1-5 years to evaluate toy selection criteria, labeling awareness, toy care practices, and perceived health risks. Based on survey results, two soft toys were selected for laboratory assessment. Hygienic evaluated parameters included external appearance, presence of labeling and packaging, sensory characteristics, sound emission level, and pH changes in a saliva model solution immediately and after 24 hours of exposure and determination of synthetic surfactants using an express photometric method. Results The survey revealed that only 14.9% consistently read toy labels and safety information. When choosing toys, parents prioritized appearance, price, and manufacturer. Kids mostly preferred soft, brightly colored, and sound-emitting toys. 46.8% of respondents believed toys could present a health risk. Routine toy care was infrequent: most parents washed toys either about once a month or only 1-2 times per year. Hygienic assessment revealed multiple compliance issues. Toy № 1 lacked any labeling; № 2 had incomplete labeling. Sound emission from Toy 1 was higher than the recommended limit (82.6 dBA). Changes in pH of the saliva model after exposure remained within acceptable ranges for both toys; sensory indicators did not exceed the study threshold (score ≤3). Synthetic surfactants exceeded in Toy № 1 (0.622 mg/L). Conclusion The conducted study demonstrated that some toys intended for children aged 1-5 years that are circulating on the market in the Republic of Armenia do not meet hygienic safety requirements. Inadequate labeling, as well as excessive acoustic and chemical factors, may pose potential health risks. Increasing parental awareness and strengthening control over toy safety are necessary from a preventive medicine perspective.