Agri chief alarmed over reported lead content in rice sacks

The Department of Agriculture (DA) has asked the Department of Trade Industry (DTI) to monitor all labels of rice sacks being sold in Metro Manila for possible lead content.

This was after the DA received a copy of the study done by public interest group EcoWaste Coalition regarding the supposed presence of lead, a highly toxic substance, in rice packaging bags or "sako."

In a letter to Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo, Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala noted that the study is limited in determining the presence of lead rice in sacks and does not include analysis on the presence of lead in rice grains.

"It is informed that out of 125 sacks, representing 100 brands of rice, purchased between the periods of April 13-18, 2013 from various rice dealers in public and private markets in cities of Metro Manila, about 53 percent showed low on non-detectable levels of lead while 47 percent were found to contain lead in the range of 124 ppm to 2605 ppm, exceeding the US limit of 90 ppm for lead in paint and surface coating," said Alcala.

"Lead was detected in the outer portions of the sacks as well as in the inner sections, posing a concern of adulteration in rice. Trace of arsenic, chromium and mercury were also found in sacks tested positive for lead. This aspect raises concern for further examination," he added.

As primary packaging for the nation’s staple food, sacks should be totally safe from lead, Alcala said, noting the health hazards and environmental damage of lead.

"We could take joint measures to address this alarming concern," he wrote Domingo.

In its study, EcoWaste Coalition recommended the following measures: prohibition of lead-added dyes, inks, and paints in food packing materials especially in rice; require millers to use only non-leaded sacks; and the putting of label 'no lead dye, ink or paint'.” — KBK, GMA News