Consumer group warns on toxic chopstick threat

BY JEAN LIN / STAFF REPORTER





Many disposable chopsticks contain high amounts of sulfur dioxide, and chopstick packaging often contains high levels of flourescent material, according to an inspection conducted by the Consumers' Foundation.

The inspection was conducted by the foundation from late June to early July and a second round was held at the beginning of last month targeting disposable chopstick manufacturers, convenience stores and supermarkets.

According to the foundation, of 37 chopsticks samples taken, 10 pairs had high amounts of sulfur dioxide, though they were still within regulated limits.

A Consumers' Foundation employee yesterday displays chopsticks as the foundation announced results of its inspection of disposable chopsticks. PHOTO: LIAO CHEN-HUEI, TAIPEI TIMES

Disposable chopstick manufacturers often use sulfite to prevent the wooden chopsticks from becoming yellow, black or moldy. However, consuming too much sulfite may cause diarrhea and vomiting.

The amount of lead found on the plastic packaging of some chopsticks was over the regulated 100ppm. Lead, once inside the body, affects the blood circulation and nervous systems and with children, lead is also linked to retardation and hyperactivity.

The paper packaging was found to contain fluorescent material that may be harmful.

Consumers' Foundation chairman Jason Lee ( 李鳳翱 ) questioned why there was not a national standard or any regulations governing disposable chopsticks.

"How do manufacturers know what regulations to follow if no standards exist? The Department of Health should take responsibility for setting those standards," Lee said.

According to Wu Chia-cheng (吳家誠), a foundation member, the affect of sulfur dioxide may be lessened if people consume vegetables first.

"Vegetables and fruit contain vitamin C that neutralizes the sulfur dioxide on the chopsticks. So when you take your first bite with your chopsticks, make sure you're consuming vegetables first," Wu said.

The foundation cautioned the public not to buy or use disposable chopsticks that seem too pale in color since paleness is an indication of over-bleaching.

In addition, the foundation suggested soaking chopsticks in warm or hot water before use.