The recall affects black handbags sold by the supermarket chain, with customers advised to stop using the items immediately and return them to any Asda store for a full refund. The issue relates to high levels of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), a type of phthalate used to make some plastics softer and more flexible.
Three Handbag Products Removed From Sale After Safety Alert
The recalled products are the £10 Front Pocket Xbody Bag, the £16 Opp Tote Bag and the £8 Black Nylon Phone Bag. According to the OPSS, all three items have an unknown country of origin and are listed under specific product codes.
The affected products are the Front Pocket Xbody Bag with product code 1100258937001 and barcode 5059206286959, the Opp Tote Bag with product code 1100260834001 and barcode 5059206491797, and the Black Nylon Phone Bag with product code 1100258939001 and barcode 505920628577.
The OPSS classified the recall as a serious chemical risk under its product safety alert system. The regulator stated that the handbags contain excessive concentrations of DEHP and do not meet the requirements of the REACH Regulations 2008, which govern the use of chemicals in products placed on the market.
Asda has asked customers who purchased any of the affected handbags to return them to a store to receive a full refund. The company said a receipt is not required. Customers seeking further information have been directed to contact Asda Customer Relations on 0330 053 0111.
Regulators Warn About Potential Effects of Phthalate Exposure
Phthalates are chemicals often added to plastic materials to improve flexibility. According to the OPSS, exposure to these substances can harm children’s health and may cause damage to reproductive organs.
The regulator’s warning follows concerns over DEHP levels in consumer products. According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), DEHP toxicity can affect the developing foetus and the male reproductive system.
The ATSDR has reported that increased exposure to DEHP has been associated with reduced testosterone levels and reduced sperm motility in men. The agency also noted that some studies have identified possible links between higher exposure during pregnancy and effects including premature birth, changes in the timing of puberty and delayed mental development.
The Asda recall was published by the OPSS on 2 September 2026 after the products were reported through local authority Trading Standards. The measure requires the handbags to be recalled from end users, with consumers advised not to continue using them.
The recall comes as retailers continue to issue product safety notices across different categories, including food and household goods. For these handbags, the action is focused on removing the affected products from use and ensuring customers can obtain refunds.
