Emma Barnes, a part-time teacher from Chester, Cheshire, was flying to Barcelona from Birmingham Airport on May 29 with her ten-year-old twins when their suitcases were pulled aside by security due to NeeDoh squishy toys. The incident caused significant stress and delays, with the queue behind them growing large as staff searched and swabbed the toys.
What Happened at Security
Barnes had five or six squishies spread across random pockets in their bags. She said: "I didn't think twice, I thought it was just a squishy toy the kids had and especially on a short haul flight when they don't have a television, they need something. It caused us so much stress." Security staff discovered one of the NeeDohs and explained they could not identify the internal component, requiring a drug test. Her daughter then revealed she had placed two more in other cases.
Impact on Travellers
The squishy toys are filled with liquid—NeeDohs use malt syrup—which flags up on airport scanners. Smaller versions under 100ml are allowed, but larger ones lack volume markings, forcing staff to estimate. Barnes warned other parents: "I wanted to help warn other parents travelling this summer as everyone's kids have squishy toys. We could see the airport staff thinking 'this is going to be a bad summer ahead'."
Other Incidents and Official Advice
Leanne from Derbyshire had a similar experience at East Midlands Airport earlier this year. Her seven-year-old daughter, who has special educational needs, hid a NeeDoh in a bag. Leanne said: "Thankfully we were allowed to keep it. I have heard that some airports dispose of them. The security lady said they flag up all the time." A Manchester Airport spokesperson advised: "All but very small squishy toys should be placed in hold baggage." A Birmingham Airport spokesperson added: "These items are not a security prohibited item, but as with any item carried as cabin baggage, they are required to clear security screening."
Counterfeit Concerns
Government officials have also raised concerns. Hillingdon Council trading standards officers seized 500,000 squishy dumpling toys at Heathrow Airport in two months, citing lack of proper labelling and safety markings. The council stated: "The main issue is the absence of clear details of a responsible UK-based business and the correct UKCA or CE safety markings."
