Imported plates sold in Caloocan store contain heavy metals, says toxics watchdog

MANILA, Philippines—After detecting harmful chemicals in imported toys and mugs sold in Metro Manila, toxics watchdog EcoWaste Coalition said it found the same substances in plates with Christmas-inspired designs.

The group, in a statement Thursday, said it detected lead and other chemicals such as arsenic and cadmium in 20 imported plates and serving dishes sold at bargain prices, from P29 to P199, in a Caloocan City department store.

EcoWaste said the samples it bought and tested on November 4 revealed “a worrisome concoction of heavy metals such as antimony, arsenic, cadmium, chromium and lead.”

“We found lead on glazes or decorations on the surfaces of the dishes that may leach into the food made, kept or served in those dishes and contribute to a person’s overall lead exposure,” said Aileen Lucero of the EcoWaste Coalition’s Project Protect.