Horse urine perfume: why online bargains may be dangerous
Horse Urine in Perfume: The Hidden Dangers of Online Shopping
As the cost of living surges due to the ongoing effects of the Iran war, consumers are increasingly turning to online marketplaces for cheaper alternatives. However, this trend has raised concerns about the proliferation of counterfeit goods, some of which have been found to contain harmful substances like horse urine. The rise of e-commerce has provided criminals with new avenues to sell fake products, fueling organised crime networks.
Government Takes Action on Counterfeit Trade
Officials are now considering new laws to hold online retailers accountable, mirroring the responsibilities of traditional brick-and-mortar stores. Major platforms have pledged to combat counterfeit items, removing them from sale. Yet, the challenge remains as counterfeit goods continue to flood the market, often passing as genuine.
Examples of Unsafe Products
Seized items in Swansea’s former holding cells reveal the scale of the problem. Fake Labubus toys, for instance, have detachable eyes that could pose a choking hazard. Super Mario replicas contain toxic chemicals in their suction cups, designed to be licked. Meanwhile, K-Pop Demon Hunters dolls are not only counterfeit but also faulty, raising safety concerns.
“Cosmetics and perfume, when we had some tested, have had horse urine in them so you don’t want to be putting that on your skin,” said Helen Barnham, head of enforcement campaigns at the Intellectual Property Office (IPO).
The IPO’s research highlights how the growth of online shopping has made it easier for counterfeiters to distribute unsafe products. Influencers often promote these items, drawing in younger buyers who prioritize low prices over quality. Consumer groups warn that such goods, from balloons to chargers, may endanger health, particularly children.
Other Risks Beyond Counterfeits
Tests by The Ladder Association found that every extendable telescopic ladder purchased online failed safety standards, snapping unexpectedly. Kerri Atherton of the British Toy and Hobby Association expressed worry over substandard toys imported from overseas, which could breach UK safety regulations. Which? investigations have uncovered items like fire-hazard energy-saving plugs and suffocation-risk baby sleeping bags.
“When they fail, they fail catastrophically. They basically snap,” said Peter Bennett, the association’s executive director.
Experts stress that the responsibility for safety lies across the supply chain, from manufacturers to online platforms. Inga Becker-Hansen of the British Retail Consortium noted, “Major online platforms are working hard to protect customers by removing unsafe and counterfeit goods from sale. However, the responsibility for consumer safety sits with the whole supply chain – from manufacturers and importers through to online marketplaces.”
Legislative Reforms to Address the Crisis
The Product Regulation and Metrology Act 2025 marks a significant step in tackling dangerous products sold online. Now, the government is consulting on detailed secondary legislation to define enforcement measures and penalties under the law. Consumer protection minister Kate Dearden explained, “These reforms are about making our product safety system fit for the modern world – shutting loopholes, clamping down on unsafe sales, and giving responsible businesses the certainty they need to grow.”