This story really stinks

[Zoltri]

By Associated Press
Posted December 23 2004


HONG KONG -- Hong Kong officials are pulling "Fart Bomb" toys from the shelves because the gag gift -- a metallic bag that gives off a stench -- produces a dangerous chemical reaction, the government said.

The sulfur-acid mixture produced by the toy can cause nausea, headaches and eye irritation, the government said in a statement Tuesday.

Customs officers have seized 263 "Fart Bombs" and are urging parents to hand in their unused toys to a consumer protection bureau, it said.

The toy includes a silver-colored bag containing sulfur compound powder and an inner plastic bag of diluted acid, the government said.

When the inner bag is broken, the chemicals mix producing hydrogen sulfide and "giving off a disgusting smell," the statement said.