Yes — when used correctly, a high-quality chew necklace from a reputable manufacturer is safe. Chewel chew necklaces are made from food-grade silicone that is BPA-free, PVC-free, lead-free, and phthalate-free, and are CE-certified and independently tested. The breakaway cord is designed to release under pressure. As with any sensory aid, regular inspection and timely replacement are essential.
Key Takeaways
- Food-grade silicone: the same material used in baby products, medical devices, and kitchen utensils
- BPA-free, PVC-free, lead-free, and phthalate-free — confirmed by independent testing
- CE-certified: meets European safety standards
- Breakaway cords release under pressure — a critical safety feature
- Silicone tears rather than shattering into hard pieces — inspect regularly and replace when cracked
- Not suitable for children under age 4 due to cord and choking risks
The Material: Food-Grade Silicone
Chewel chew necklaces are made from food-grade silicone — a synthetic material derived from silicon (a naturally occurring element). Food-grade silicone is widely used in products that come into contact with the mouth and food, including:
- Baby teats and soothers
- Kitchen utensils (spatulas, baking mats)
- Medical tubing and implants
- Ice cube trays and food storage containers
Food-grade silicone is non-toxic, non-porous, and stable at a wide range of temperatures. It does not leach chemicals into saliva or food.
What Is Not in a Chewel Chew Necklace
- BPA-free: bisphenol A is a plasticiser with potential hormonal effects — not present in food-grade silicone
- PVC-free: polyvinyl chloride is a common plastic that can contain harmful additives — Chewel pendants do not use PVC
- Lead-free: lead has no safe level of exposure for children — confirmed absent by testing
- Phthalate-free: phthalates are plasticisers associated with endocrine disruption — not used in Chewel products
- Latex-free: important for children with latex allergies
CE Certification and Independent Testing
CE marking indicates that a product conforms to EU health, safety, and environmental protection standards. For chew necklaces, this includes requirements for materials in contact with the mouth and skin, cord breaking strength, and the absence of prohibited substances.
Chewel products undergo independent laboratory testing before being placed on the market. These tests verify the absence of restricted substances and confirm that the silicone meets food-grade standards.
Breakaway Cords
The cord on a chew necklace is a safety-critical component. Chewel chew necklaces use breakaway cords designed to release under sustained pulling pressure, significantly reducing the risk of cord strangulation if the necklace becomes caught on something.
Important cord safety points:
- Always use the cord provided — do not replace with a standard fixed cord
- Inspect the cord regularly for signs of fraying or weakening
- The cord should be replaced when it shows wear — replacement cords are available
- For very young children (4–6), consider a shorter silicone loop rather than a long cord, to reduce entanglement risk on playground equipment
- Remove the necklace (or tuck inside clothing) for high-movement activities such as climbing frames, trampolining, or contact sports
How Silicone Behaves When Worn Through
One key safety advantage of silicone over harder materials is its failure mode. When silicone is chewed through, it typically tears rather than snapping into hard pieces. This is significantly safer than harder rubber or plastic alternatives, which can break into sharp fragments.
However, any torn or heavily cracked chew necklace should be replaced immediately. Small pieces of torn silicone could pose a choking risk if swallowed.
When to Replace Your Chew Necklace
Inspect the pendant and cord at least weekly. Replace if you see:
- Any hairline cracks in the surface of the silicone
- Pieces starting to separate or come away
- Significant change in texture (becoming sticky or rough)
- Visible discolouration that does not wash off
- Any fraying or weakening of the cord
Age Guidance
Chewel chew necklaces are not suitable for children under 4 years of age. Below this age:
- The breakaway cord mechanism may not be fully protective against all entanglement scenarios
- The child is unlikely to understand instructions not to pull on the cord or share the necklace
- Children under 4 still have teething needs better addressed by age-appropriate teething products under direct supervision
From age 4, chew necklaces are appropriate with adult supervision and regular inspection.
Want to know more? Our complete guide covers hardness, cleaning, lifespan, and school use.
Read the Complete Guide →