The Customs & Excise Department says bead toy samples from the local market it sent for testing were found to contain 1,4-butanedio - a chemical posing health risks to children.

Customs said it is working closely with the government laboratory and Department of Health to determine whether the products contravene the Toys & Children's Products Safety Ordinance.

Customs has conducted spot checks on local retail outlets but has not found the product concerned for sale. It welcomes retailers' voluntary recall of products suspected to have safety concerns.

Children should not play with toys containing the chemical which poses significant health risk to them, the health department says.

People can call 2545 6182 to report suspected unsafe toys.