PU foam
Closed-cell polyurethane foam with a painted skin: 3–6 s rebound, realistic airbrushed food, the volume tier for $5–10 retail.
TPR gel
Thermoplastic rubber with gel or solid micro-beads: stretchy, translucent, glitter and crunchy styles; $8–12 retail.
Food-grade silicone
Dense creamy texture with 6–8 s rebound; the premium tier at $12–17 retail.
Matching material to channel
Dollar stores want PU singles; gift shops want TPR blisters; online brands want silicone mystery boxes.
Source: U.S. CPSC recall notices of 3 Sept 2026 and 16 CFR 1250.4 (Federal Register, 12 Dec 2025).