The city's decision is a temporary measure pending a comprehensive assessment and does not constitute a ban or recall, according to Göteborgs Stad. Products from Magna Tiles cannot currently be ordered via the common e-commerce system Proceedo, and no recall has been decided at present. Analyses indicate that cobalt and boron compounds in the magnetic components may exceed the limit values specified in the city's agreements, which are based on criteria from the Swedish Procurement Authority. The products may simultaneously comply with applicable legislation, but Göteborgs Stad sets more far-reaching requirements on chemical content in its agreements in some cases. The substances occur in encapsulated parts and are not accessible during normal use, with exposure during play assessed as very limited.
The discovery was made during a follow-up of the agreement for play materials that began in autumn 2025, according to officials. An investigation is ongoing, with additional test results for several products and batches awaited in the coming weeks, after which a comprehensive assessment will determine any continued measures. This approach exemplifies how Göteborgs Stad applies the precautionary principle, acting preventively amid uncertainties about chemical content. Affected operations can themselves choose to temporarily take the products out of use based on their own assessments and routines.
Göteborgs Stad purchases large quantities of toys and products for its operations, and since it is not practically possible to test every product in advance, risk-based spot checks are conducted. If something deviates during a spot check, action is taken immediately, such as by stopping sales and investigating further. Suppliers have a responsibility to ensure that delivered products continuously meet the environmental and chemical requirements set in agreements, with ongoing dialogue to ensure all contract terms are followed throughout the contract period.
Other brands with magnetic toys are not covered by the ongoing investigation. It remains unclear which specific Magna Tiles products or batches are affected, what the exact levels of compounds are, or how many operations in the city are impacted.