Candy Dynamics Recalls 70 Million Slime Licker Sour Rolling Liquid Candies Due to Choking Hazard

What was recalled

In early October 2023, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant safety recall involving approximately 70 million units of a popular novelty candy product. The items in question are "Slime Licker Sour Rolling Liquid Candies," manufactured and distributed by Candy Dynamics. This is not a small-scale issue affecting a single batch or flavor; it is a massive, nationwide distribution problem that touches on several variations of the same product line sold in grocery stores, convenience shops, and online retailers across the country.

The core of the recalled items consists of plastic bottles containing a sour liquid candy. The unique selling point of these candies is their applicator: a rolling ball attached to the top of the bottle that allows consumers to roll the sour liquid onto their tongues. While this design is intended to be fun and interactive, it is precisely what triggered this safety alert. The recall covers products packaged in two distinct sizes: standard two-ounce containers and larger three-ounce "Mega" versions. These bottles come in four specific flavor profiles, each distinguished by its packaging color: blue for Blue Razz, red for Strawberry, green for Sour Apple, and pink for Black Cherry.

Identifying the exact products is crucial because they were sold under two different brand names on the front label. Some bottles clearly display the "TOXIC WASTE" brand name alongside "SLIME LICKER Sour Rolling Liquid Candy." Others are labeled under the "MEGA TOXIC WASTE" brand, also featuring the "SLIME LICKER Sour Rolling Liquid Candy" text. Because of this dual branding and the variety of pack sizes—including individual two-ounce bottles and two-packs of two-ounce bottles—consumers need to look closely at both the front label and the barcode to determine if their specific item is part of this recall.

The scope of this recall is defined by specific Universal Product Code (UPC) numbers printed on the packaging. If you have any of the following items, they are included in this notice:

• Slime Licker Sour Rolling Liquid Candy (Blue Razz & Strawberry), 2 oz. with UPC code 8-98940-00101-6.
• Slime Licker Sour Rolling Liquid Candy (Blue Razz & Strawberry), 2 oz., 2 pack with UPC code 8-98940-00191-7.
• Mega Slime Licker Sour Rolling Liquid Candy (Blue Razz & Strawberry), 3 oz. with UPC code 8-98940-00169-6.
• Slime Licker Sour Rolling Liquid Candy (Black Cherry & Sour Apple), 2 oz. with UPC code 8-50034-59720-1.
• Slime Licker Sour Rolling Liquid Candy (Blue Razz & Strawberry), 2 oz. with UPC code 0-60631-91829-7.

Candy Dynamics issued this recall on October 5, 2023, because the rolling applicator ball can detach from the container. When that happens, the small ball becomes a loose object that can easily be placed into a child's mouth, creating a serious choking hazard. If you have any of the products listed above, please read the next sections carefully to understand how to safely return them.

The hazard, explained

To understand why the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued this urgent recall, it helps to look closely at the physical design of the Slime Licker Sour Rolling Liquid Candy. The product is engineered with a specific mechanism: a plastic bottle filled with sour liquid candy, topped with a rolling ball applicator that users squeeze and roll across their tongues to dispense the treat. While this design creates a fun, interactive eating experience for many, it introduces a critical structural vulnerability. The core issue lies in the connection point between the rolling ball and the main body of the container. Under certain conditions—such as excessive squeezing pressure, wear and tear on the plastic joint, or simply manufacturing inconsistencies—the rolling applicator can detach completely from the bottle.

When this detachment occurs, the small rolling ball becomes a loose, independent object. This is where the danger escalates rapidly. The ball is typically hard, smooth, and small enough to fit entirely into a young child’s mouth. In safety terms, this creates an immediate choking hazard. For children under the age of three, whose airways are significantly narrower than those of adults, even a small object can completely obstruct breathing. Unlike larger toys that might be visible or easier to dislodge, a detached applicator ball can slip deep into the throat, blocking the windpipe before a caregiver realizes what has happened.

It is important to note that this is not just a theoretical risk. The company, Candy Dynamics, has already received two confirmed reports of the rolling applicator ball detaching from the container. While the CPSC records indicate that no injuries have been reported at this time, the absence of injury does not diminish the severity of the hazard. Choking incidents can happen in seconds, and the potential for serious harm or fatality is high when a small object obstructs a child’s airway. The hazard is particularly acute because the product is marketed as a fun, messy candy often purchased by parents for children. The very act of using the product—squeezing the bottle to roll the ball—can inadvertently trigger the detachment, turning a playful treat into a dangerous situation. This recall underscores how even small mechanical failures in consumer goods can lead to significant safety risks, especially when vulnerable populations like young children are involved.

Who is most at risk

When we look at the specific mechanics of this recall, the primary group at risk is clearly young children, particularly those under the age of five. The product in question, Slime Licker Sour Rolling Liquid Candy, is designed with a plastic bottle and a rolling ball applicator that allows users to roll sour liquid candy onto their tongues. While the concept is fun for older kids and adults who understand how to use it, the physical design creates a significant danger for toddlers and preschoolers. Children in this age group are naturally curious and often explore objects by putting them in their mouths. They may not have the motor skills or the cognitive awareness to keep the detachable ball separate from their mouth during play. If the ball detaches, as it did in the two reported incidents, it becomes a loose object that can easily slip into a child’s airway.

The vulnerability of this age group is compounded by the size and shape of the hazard. A detached rolling ball is small enough to block a young child’s narrow windpipe completely. Young children have not fully developed their cough reflexes or the strength to clear an airway obstruction effectively. Even if they manage to breathe around the object, panic can set in quickly, leading to spasms that might worsen the blockage. This is why the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) emphasizes immediate removal from reach; for a toddler, this candy container is not just a treat but a potential toy with a dangerous part that can come apart.

While young children are the most critical group to protect, it is important to note that anyone who might handle this product carelessly could be at risk. Although no injuries have been reported in connection with this recall, the mere fact that two balls have detached indicates a manufacturing or design flaw that does not discriminate by age. Older children might also attempt to use the product in unsafe ways, such as shaking it vigorously or trying to bite into the applicator, which could increase the likelihood of the ball coming loose. Additionally, anyone with swallowing difficulties, regardless of age, should avoid products with small, detachable components that could pose a choking risk. The general rule here is simple: if a part can come off and fit entirely inside a mouth, it is not safe for use by anyone who cannot reliably manage or inspect the object before putting it near their face.

Parents and caregivers should be especially vigilant because these candies are often sold in bright, appealing colors like blue, red, green, and pink, which can attract children’s attention. The "Toxic Waste" and "Mega Toxic Waste" branding might also make the product seem exciting or edgy to older kids who might try it, potentially leading to misuse. Therefore, the risk extends beyond just the youngest toddlers to any child who might be left unsupervised with the product. It is crucial to remember that choking incidents can happen in seconds, and having the product out of reach entirely is the only way to ensure safety.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

Before you take any action, it is essential to confirm whether the specific Slime Licker Sour Rolling Liquid Candy in your possession is part of this recall. Because these products are widely distributed and come in several variations, a quick visual inspection of your item can save you time and ensure you only contact the company if necessary. The recall issued by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) on October 5, 2023, targets specific batches manufactured by Candy Dynamics. To identify the affected products, you need to look closely at both the packaging design and the printed identification numbers.

First, examine the front of the bottle. The recalled items are branded under either "TOXIC WASTE" or "MEGA TOXIC WASTE." You will see the product name "SLIME LICKER Sour Rolling Liquid Candy" printed prominently on the label. The packaging is distinctively colored to indicate the flavor profile, and you should check for any of the following four color schemes: blue (representing Blue Razz), red (Strawberry), green (Sour Apple), or pink (Black Cherry). It is important to note that this recall applies to these specific visual styles; if your product has different branding or packaging colors not listed here, it may not be included in this specific safety notice.

The size of the container is another critical identifier. The recall specifically involves two-ounce and three-ounce bottles. You will find the exact volume printed on the label. Additionally, some packages are sold as multi-packs. If you have a 2-ounce pack containing two bottles, the packaging may indicate this bundle size. To be absolutely certain your item is part of the recall, you must locate the Universal Product Code (UPC) barcode, typically found on the back or bottom of the container. Compare the numbers printed above or below the barcode against the following list of affected UPC codes:

• 8-98940-00101-6: Slime Licker Sour Rolling Liquid Candy (Blue Razz & Strawberry), 2 oz.
• 8-98940-00191-7: Slime Licker Sour Rolling Liquid Candy (Blue Razz & Strawberry), 2 oz., 2 pack.
• 8-98940-00169-6: Mega Slime Licker Sour Rolling Liquid Candy (Blue Razz & Strawberry), 3 oz.
• 8-50034-59720-1: Slime Licker Sour Rolling Liquid Candy (Black Cherry & Sour Apple), 2 oz.
• 0-60631-91829-7: Slime Licker Sour Rolling Liquid Candy (Blue Razz & Strawberry), 2 oz.

If your product matches one of these UPC codes, it is part of the recall. Even if you purchased the item some time ago, the risk remains because the defect involves the structural integrity of the rolling applicator ball, which can detach from the container. Do not rely solely on memory or general packaging appearance; the UPC code is your most reliable verification tool. If you have any doubt about whether your specific bottle is included, it is always safer to treat it as recalled until you can verify otherwise through official channels.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you have one of the recalled Slime Licker Sour Rolling Liquid Candies from Candy Dynamics, your primary option is a full refund for the product. It is important to note that this remedy is specifically designed for containers that are not empty. Because the hazard involves the rolling applicator ball detaching and potentially posing a choking risk, the company has structured their response to ensure you can safely dispose of any remaining candy while being reimbursed for your purchase. If your container is already completely empty, the recall instructions do not specify a refund process for that scenario, so it is best to contact them directly if you are unsure.

To initiate this process, you will need to reach out to Candy Dynamics through one of their designated channels. You can call their toll-free number at 877-546-0483. They are available to take your call from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. Alternatively, you can visit their website at www.CandyDynamicsRecall.expertinquiry.com or go to the main site at www.CandyDynamics.com and click on "Recall Information" located at the bottom of the page. These are the only official avenues provided for this specific recall, so please avoid using generic customer service lines that may not be set up to handle recall-specific refunds.

A key benefit of contacting Candy Dynamics directly is that they have arranged for free shipping labels to help you return your non-empty product. This means you do not need to pay out of pocket to send the item back to them. When you contact them via phone or online, they will guide you through the steps to receive this label. Once you have the label, you can pack the recalled container securely and mail it back. This step is crucial because it ensures the potentially hazardous rolling ball is safely removed from your home and does not end up in a landfill where it could still pose a risk to children or pets.

While this recall does not offer a repair option or a direct replacement product, the full refund serves as the primary remedy. The goal is to make the process as seamless as possible for consumers who purchased these candies in blue (Blue Razz), red (Strawberry), green (Sour Apple), or pink (Black Cherry) packaging under either the "TOXIC WASTE" or "MEGA TOXIC WASTE" brands. By taking the time to contact Candy Dynamics and return the item, you are not only securing your money back but also helping to keep other families safe by ensuring the defective units are properly accounted for. If you have any questions about whether your specific UPC code is included in this recall, the contact methods mentioned above are the best place to get that information confirmed.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to throw away a package of candy that still looks full and unopened. The urge to save money or simply not waste food is a very human reaction, especially when the recall notice feels like an overreaction. However, in this specific case, ignoring the warning carries a risk that outweighs the value of the product by a significant margin. The core issue with the Candy Dynamics Slime Licker is not chemical toxicity or contamination; it is a mechanical failure that turns a fun novelty item into a dangerous trap for children.

The hazard stems from the design of the rolling applicator ball. This component is meant to roll over the candy and release liquid, but the structural integrity of its attachment point has proven to be unreliable. When you continue to use or store these products without addressing the recall, you are leaving a latent danger in your home. The primary consequence of ignoring this recall is the potential for a child’s mouth to become obstructed by the detached plastic ball. Because the ball is designed to fit into the mouth to access the candy, it is precisely the wrong size and shape to pass through the airway if swallowed or lodged there. This creates an immediate mechanical blockage of the trachea, leading to choking.

You might think that because no injuries have been reported yet, the risk is theoretical. However, the fact that two reports of the ball detaching have already been received indicates that the failure mode is real and recurring. Choking incidents often escalate quickly and silently. A child may not be able to signal distress effectively, especially if they are young or overwhelmed by the surprise of the object entering their mouth. The delay in recognizing that a non-food item is blocking the airway can lead to hypoxia (lack of oxygen), which causes brain damage within minutes if not treated immediately. While the candy itself is sour and acidic, the physical presence of the plastic ball is the acute life-threatening event.

Furthermore, ignoring the recall means you are not removing the hazard from your environment. Children are curious and often mimic adult behaviors or explore objects by putting them in their mouths. A discarded container that still holds a detached rolling ball can be picked up and played with, turning a piece of trash into a toy-like object that poses a severe aspiration risk. By taking action now, you eliminate the possibility of this specific type of accident occurring in your household. The peace of mind that comes from knowing your children are not playing with a potential choking device is far more valuable than the cost of the candy. Please do not gamble with safety when a simple return process offers a full refund and removes the danger entirely.

Staying safe: broader tips

While this specific recall highlights a unique design flaw in a popular novelty candy, it serves as a valuable reminder that safety often hinges on the small details of product design. When we encounter new types of consumer goods, especially those marketed toward children or designed for interactive play, it is wise to pause and consider the physical mechanics of the item before handing it over. Many innovative products introduce new risks by combining elements that are safe in isolation but hazardous when coupled. For instance, a plastic container might be sturdy enough to survive a drop, and a liquid candy might be non-toxic, but if a small, hard component is loosely attached to an opening where a child’s mouth can reach, the risk of choking or airway obstruction becomes real. Understanding that "novelty" does not always equate to "child-safe" is a critical first step in proactive parenting and consumer awareness.

One of the most effective ways to stay ahead of potential hazards is to make checking for recalls a regular habit, rather than waiting for an incident to occur. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) maintains a robust database of recalls that covers everything from electronics and toys to furniture and food products. You can subscribe to email alerts on the CPSC website or follow their social media channels to receive notifications about new safety issues as they are announced. Additionally, many manufacturers now offer direct notification services if you register your products upon purchase. By staying informed through these official channels, you ensure that you are acting on verified information rather than rumors or outdated news. This proactive approach empowers you to remove dangerous items from your home before they cause harm, protecting your family without panic.

Beyond monitoring recalls, practicing safe storage and supervision habits can significantly reduce the likelihood of accidents involving small parts and hazardous materials. For products that contain detachable components or liquid contents, always store them in a secure location that is out of reach of young children. If a product has moving parts, such as a rolling ball applicator, inspect it regularly for signs of wear, loosening, or damage that could compromise its integrity. Teach older children to use these items responsibly and under supervision, emphasizing that they are not toys but consumable products with specific usage instructions. Furthermore, keep emergency contact numbers for poison control and local emergency services readily available. In the event of a suspected choking incident or ingestion of a harmful substance, quick access to professional guidance can be lifesaving. By combining vigilance with education and preparedness, you create a safer environment for everyone in your household.

• Register Your Products: When you buy new items, take a moment to register them with the manufacturer. This ensures you receive direct alerts if a safety issue is discovered later.
• Inspect Regularly: Check toys and novelty items for loose parts, cracks, or broken seals before each use. Discard any product that appears compromised.
• Store Securely: Keep recalled or potentially hazardous items in a locked cabinet or high shelf, away from curious hands and mouths.
• Educate Your Family: Have open conversations with children about which products are safe for them to use and which are not. Reinforce the importance of not putting non-food items in their mouths.