Asda has recalled three lines of ladies’ handbags after they were found to contain excessive levels of a chemical that could pose a serious risk to reproductive health.

The recall was issued after the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) identified excessive concentrations of Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) in the affected bags.

Phthalates are chemicals commonly used to make certain plastics and synthetic materials softer and more flexible. According to the product safety warning, exposure to excessive levels of DEHP may pose a risk to the reproductive system.

The affected products are all black handbags and have an unknown country of origin.

The recalled products are:

  • £10 Front Pocket Xbody Bag — Product code: 1100258937001
  • £16 Opp Tote Bag — Product code: 1100260834001
  • £8 Black Nylon Phone Bag — Product code: 1100258939001

The OPSS has urged consumers who own any of the affected bags to stop using them immediately.

Customers can return the recalled handbags to any Asda store for a full refund.

Consumers seeking further information about the recall can contact Asda on 0330 053 0111.

The recall highlights the importance of checking product safety notices, particularly when potentially hazardous chemicals are identified in everyday consumer products.