Asda recalls handbags over ‘serious’ chemical risk to reproductive system

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it’s investigating the financials of Elon Musk’s pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, ‘The A Word’, which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Asda is recalling three lines of ladies’ handbags after they were found to pose a “serious” chemical risk which may cause damage to the reproductive system.

The bags, which are all black and have an “unknown” country of origin, contain excessive concentrations of Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) said.

Phthalates, which are sometimes added to plastic to make it softer and more flexible, may harm the health of children, possibly causing damage to the reproductive system, the OPSS added.

Undated handout photo issued by the Office for Product Safety & Standards of ASDA Ladies’ handbags that have been recalled due. Issue date: Wednesday September 2, 2026. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: OPSS/PA WireNOTE TO EDITORS: This handout photo may only be used in for editorial reporting purposes for the contemporaneous illustration of events, things or the people in the image or facts mentioned in the caption. Reuse of the picture may require further permission from the copyright holder.

Asda has recalled the bags: the £10 Front Pocket Xbody Bag carrying the product code 1100258937001; the £16 Opp Tote Bag with the product code 1100260834001; and the £8 Black Nylon Phone Bag with the product code 1100258939001.

The OPSS said: “We recommend that consumers stop using the product immediately.

“Return the product to any Asda store for a full refund.”

Consumers can contact Asda on 0330 053 0111 for further information.