Health Ministry warns of silent health threat from everyday plastic use

Colombo, June 11 (Daily Mirror) - The Health Ministry has issued a strong warning over the growing use of non-standard plastic utensils and food containers, cautioning that long-term exposure could lead to serious health complications.

Speaking at a media briefing held at the Health Promotion Bureau, Ministry of Health Director of Environmental and Occupational Health and Food Safety Dr. Chandanee Withana said that unsafe plastic products used in cooking, storage and food consumption may release harmful substances into the human body over time.

She explained that when plastics are exposed to heat, such as in hot food or beverages, chemicals including Bisphenol A (BPA), along with microscopic plastic particles known as microplastics, can leach into food and drinking water.

According to her, these particles can gradually accumulate in the body and enter vital organs through the bloodstream, including the brain, liver and kidneys, potentially causing long-term damage.

Dr. Withana further warned that continuous exposure may increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, hormonal imbalances, fertility-related complications, chronic non-communicable diseases, and certain types of cancer.

The Health Ministry official urged the public to shift towards safer alternatives for food preparation and storage, recommending the use of clay, glass, ceramic, and metal containers to reduce potential health risks linked to plastic use.