Cancer-causing chemical found in Chinese ice-cream cover

Beijing, Nov 30 (IANS) Paper wrappers used over ice-cream cones made by a Chinese chain have been found to contain excessive levels of fluorescent agents and bleaching chemicals that can cause cancer.

According to test results, the wrapper came from the Shanghai Iceason Food Co. Ltd. and was made in April by a paper production firm in the northern city of Tianjin, the Shanghai Daily reported.

A company official said she could not comment immediately on the test results.

Two other companies – Shanghai Qingfangxi Qiye Catering Corp. Ltd., producer of a green tea called “Matcha”, and baking company Shanghai Weiyou Catering Management Corp. Ltd. – were also found to have packaging with excessive fluorescent agents.

The Consumer Rights Protection Commission said it conducted tests on the plastic and paper packaging of 100 food products bought from supermarkets and catering companies.

Another firm had plastic packaging with evaporation residue containing a toxic heavy metal.

Fluorescent substances do not decompose easily and may be absorbed by food, affecting people’s immune systems, doctors told Shanghai Daily.

IANS 2012-11-30 17:10:09