MANILA: Non-government organization EcoWaste Coalition has issued a warning regarding potential health risks associated with lead exposure from painted stainless steel water tumblers marketed for children’s use.

According to Philippines News Agency, the group revealed findings from its X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF) analysis of four tumblers purchased from stores in Manila and Mandaue City, Cebu, all of which showed elevated lead levels. The tumblers, adorned with popular cartoon characters, were found to have lead concentrations significantly above the permissible limit set by local regulations.

Testing revealed a teddy bear-themed tumbler contained an alarming 32,820 parts per million (ppm) of lead, while those featuring Felix the Cat and Pompompurin had 12,320 ppm and 4,060 ppm, respectively. Additionally, a tumbler inscribed with the phrase “Future Life” was found to contain 27,560 ppm of lead. These levels starkly exceed the 90 ppm threshold established by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) under its Chemical Control Order for Lead and Lead Compounds.

The DENR regulation, which phased out the use of lead in decorative and industrial paints in 2016 and 2019, also prohibits lead in school supplies and other products intended for children. EcoWaste Coalition underscored the risks associated with lead in paint, which can deteriorate, chip, and pose ingestion hazards, particularly to children.

The organization emphasized that lead exposure can lead to irreversible harm, including cognitive and behavioral issues, as highlighted by the World Health Organization. EcoWaste urged the government to enforce stricter adherence to lead limits, hold importers accountable, and prohibit hazardous chemicals in products designed for children. Parents were also advised to exercise caution and verify the safety of products intended for their children.