Arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury and other harmful chemicals were found in a third of the most popular children's toys in the United States, says a new study by the Ecology Center consumer organization.
Of the 700 toys tested by the Michigan-based group, 32 percent contained one or more toxic chemicals, Agence France Presse reported.
Seven percent of the toys contained more than 40 parts per million (ppm) of lead, the highest level recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics in 2007. Lead levels in 3 percent of the toys exceeded 300 ppm, the U.S.-mandated limit.
Toys with detectable lead levels included the Barbie Bike Flair Accessory Kit, the Dora the Explorer Activity Tote and the Kid's Poncho sold by Wal-Mart, AFP reported.