MANILA – Non-government organization EcoWaste Coalition issued a warning on Sunday about the potential health risks of lead exposure from painted stainless steel water tumblers being sold for children’s use.
In a press release, the group disclosed the results of its X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) screening on four tumblers purchased from stores in Manila and Mandaue City in Cebu that tested positive for high lead levels.
Three of the tumblers, featuring cartoon characters, tested positive for high lead levels in their paint.
A teddy bear-themed tumbler contained 32,820 ppm (parts per million) of lead, while tumblers with Felix the Cat and Pompompurin characters showed 12,320 ppm and 4,060 ppm, respectively.
Another tumbler with the phrase “Future Life” had 27,560 ppm.
These levels far exceed the 90 ppm limit set by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) under its Chemical Control Order for Lead and Lead Compounds.
The regulation, which phased out lead in decorative and industrial paints in 2016 and 2019, also prohibits lead use in school supplies and other children’s products.
“Lead in paints used on tumblers is a serious concern as the paint can deteriorate and chip, posing ingestion risks, especially to children,” EcoWaste Coalition said.
The group emphasized that lead exposure can cause irreversible damage, including cognitive impairment and behavioral issues, as warned by the World Health Organization.
EcoWaste urged the government to enforce stricter compliance with lead limits, hold importers accountable, and ban hazardous chemicals in children’s products.
Parents were also advised to ensure the safety of products they purchase for their children. (PR)