June 11, Colombo (LNW): Sri Lankan health authorities have issued a renewed warning about the potential dangers associated with the routine use of low-quality plastic containers and utensils, highlighting growing concerns over their long-term impact on public health.
Addressing a media briefing at the Health Promotion Bureau, Director of Environmental and Occupational Health and Food Safety, Dr Chandanee Withana, said increasing scientific evidence points to the harmful effects of certain chemicals and microscopic plastic particles that can migrate into food and beverages from plastic products.
She explained that the risk becomes significantly greater when plastic containers are used to store, heat or serve hot meals and drinks. Under such conditions, chemicals embedded within the plastic may gradually seep into food, increasing the likelihood of human exposure over time.
Among the substances of concern are microplastics and chemical compounds such as Bisphenol A (BPA), which are commonly found in a variety of consumer products, including food packaging, disposable containers and plastic beverage bottles. Health experts fear that repeated exposure to these materials may lead to their accumulation within the body.
Dr Withana noted that once absorbed, these particles and chemicals can travel through the bloodstream and reach major organs, including the liver, kidneys and brain. Although research into the full extent of their effects is ongoing, studies have increasingly linked prolonged exposure to a range of health complications.
According to health officials, excessive contact with these contaminants may contribute to cardiovascular problems, disruptions to hormonal function, reproductive health issues and other chronic non-communicable diseases. There are also concerns that long-term exposure could elevate the risk of certain cancers and weaken overall wellbeing.
The Ministry further emphasised the importance of making safer choices in daily food preparation and storage practices. Consumers have been encouraged to reduce their reliance on plastic products where possible and opt for alternatives such as glass, stainless steel, ceramic or clay containers, which are generally considered safer for storing and serving food.
Health authorities also urged manufacturers and retailers to promote higher safety standards and increase public awareness regarding the proper use of food-grade materials, stressing that preventative action today could help reduce future health risks for the population.