Today's Edition
ASILA AL BADI (ABU DHABI)
A recent recall of certain drinking glasses has strengthened confidence among UAE consumers, with a medical expert saying the move helps prevent long-term exposure to toxic metals.
The Ministry of Economy and Tourism issued a safety advisory last week, urging consumers to stop using a specific batch of 220ml glasses sold under the Flying Tiger brand after elevated levels of lead and cadmium were detected in its external decorative print. Consumers were advised to dispose of the affected items.
Residents welcomed the swift and transparent action, saying strict oversight reinforces trust in the country’s consumer protection system.
“I fully trust the system and these announcements as the authorities follow up on anything that does not comply with product safety standards,” said Fatima Alzaabi, an Emirati mother of five.
She added that she regularly follows official updates on product recalls, especially for household items, noting that such safeguards make her feel secure when purchasing and using products in the UAE.
A medical expert said the advisory highlighted the importance of preventing exposure to hazardous substances, especially in everyday items.
Dr Niyas Khalid, an internal medicine specialist at Burjeel Hospital Abu Dhabi, said lead and cadmium are toxic heavy metals with no beneficial physiological role in the human body.
He explained that while one-time or occasional exposure is unlikely to pose immediate threat, the main concern is repeated low-dose exposure over time. Early exposure often produces no obvious symptoms, making prevention critical. In some cases, individuals may experience fatigue, vague abdominal discomfort, irritability or subtle cognitive changes, the expert said.
Over time, lead exposure can affect neurocognitive function, kidney health and blood pressure regulation, while cadmium is linked to progressive kidney damage, bone demineralisation and other long-term effects, he added.
In the case of drinking glasses, Dr Khalid said the risk lies not in the glass itself but in the decorative coatings or prints that may contain harmful substances. With repeated handling or wear, small amounts can transfer to one’s hands and be indirectly ingested.
“This advisory should be seen as a preventive measure, not because there is an acute poisoning risk from occasional use, but because eliminating avoidable sources of chronic exposure is a cornerstone of public health,” he said.
Dr Khalid advised consumers to choose products clearly labelled as safe for food contact, avoid items with fading or peeling decorative coatings, and to be cautious of poorly labelled goods.
Abu Dhabi resident Helen Badri said the advisory has made her more cautious about purchases, particularly items frequently used by children. “I would now be more likely to check labels, look more closely at product quality, and pay attention to official updates before buying,” she said.
Badri noted that everyday items such as children’s cups, lunch boxes and household accessories are often bought without much concern, making such notices especially important. “You don’t always think something as ordinary as a cup or container could carry a risk, so these announcements raise awareness,” she said.
Badri added that swift communication of recalls strengthens public trust. “It reassures people that products in the market are being monitored and that consumers are alerted when something needs attention,” she said.
