As the holiday shopping season gains momentum, consumers are being warned to exercise caution when buying gift items like ceramic mugs. Toxic watchdog group BAN Toxics has raised alarms over potentially hazardous chemicals found in some colorful and printed ceramic products commonly sold in local markets.
During a recent market surveillance, BAN Toxics purchased 12 samples of ceramic mugs priced between ₱50 and ₱65 from vendors in Carriedo, Divisoria, and Quezon City. These mugs, often used for personalized gifts, were sold unboxed and without labels—key indicators of unregulated products.
Using a Vanta C Series XRF Chemical Analyzer, the group discovered alarming levels of lead (61 to 8,700 ppm) and cadmium (56 to 1,130 ppm) in all the samples. The highest concentrations were found in the glazed coatings or painted designs on the mugs.
Lead exposure, even at low levels, poses significant health risks. According to the World Health Organization, it can impair brain development in children, reducing IQ, altering behavior, and hindering educational outcomes. Severe exposure can cause permanent intellectual and behavioral disabilities.
Cadmium, classified as a human carcinogen, damages the kidneys, respiratory system, and skeletal structure. Its toxic effects are particularly concerning due to the cumulative impact on health over time.
BAN Toxics Advocacy and Campaign Officer Thony Dizon stressed the urgent need for regulatory intervention. “Ceramic mugs, plates, and similar items are popular household and gift products, but the toxic substances used in these wares pose serious health risks, especially to children,” he said.
The group urged government agencies to conduct post-market inspections and enforce stricter safety guidelines for ceramic items. While existing regulations under DAO 2013-24 and DAO 2021-08 address lead and cadmium in various contexts, they currently exclude glazed ceramic products.
BAN Toxics plans to submit their findings to the Environmental Management Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (EMB-DENR) to push for policy amendments and stricter oversight.
As consumers, it’s crucial to stay vigilant. Opt for labeled and certified products, and avoid items that may compromise health in exchange for low prices. This holiday season, let safety take precedence in your gift-giving choices.
