Lai Cheng – Page 108 – Consumers Association Penang

Textile and Tyre Industries Contributing to Microplastics Crisis

Lai Cheng June 5, 2024 0 Comments

The textile and tyre industries are among the major contributors of microplastics to the environment, says an academic. Universiti Sains Malaysia’s Applied Microbiology Professor Dr K. Sudesh Kumar said most of our clothes contain polyester, which is a type of plastic. “Every time we wash our clothes, large quantities of microfibres are released from the clothes. These microfibres then break...

Microplastics Stay in the Body and Are Harmful

Lai Cheng June 5, 2024 0 Comments

Microplastics that are consumed, mostly through seafood, stay in the body and could negatively affect human health, say environmental experts. Environment and waste management expert Dr Theng Lee Chong said scientists have found that the interaction of microplastics in human bodies mostly through ingestion and inhalation can produce various kinds of toxicity, depending on the types of...

Malaysians Eat the Most Microplastics Out of 109 Countries

Lai Cheng June 5, 2024 0 Comments

Malaysia ranks the highest among 109 countries in consuming microplastics, which are plastic particles smaller than 5 mm, a recent study found. The study, published in the Environmental Science and Technology journal, found that Malaysians eat an average of 502.3 mg of microplastics daily per capita. The report noted that more than 50% of Malaysia’s microplastic consumption was from fish...

“LEAD-FREE” PAINTS WITH HIGH LEVELS OF LEAD

Lai Cheng June 5, 2024 0 Comments

Consumers, beware. “Lead-free” paints can still contain lead, warns Philippines toxics watchdog group Ecowaste Coalition in a recent press release. In its latest tests, the group detected illegal levels of lead on 7 colours of an imported spray paint brand despite the "no Pb" icon on the can (Pb is the symbol for lead from the Latin word, plumbum). The implicated products were new “made in...

Address Solar Panel Waste Management and Promote Energy Saving

Lai Cheng June 5, 2024 0 Comments

In conjunction with World Environment Day on June 5, 2024, it is time for us to reflect on our role in safeguarding our planet. This year, the Consumers’ Association of Penang (CAP) highlights the growing importance of managing solar panel waste and adopting energy saving practices. The adoption of solar energy is a positive step towards reducing reliance on fossil fuels and combating climate...

FRUITS HAVE PROTEIN TOO

Lai Cheng June 4, 2024 0 Comments

Mention fruit and we think of health-giving antioxidants and fibre. But do you know: fruits have protein too. Although not commonly consumed for their protein content – they provide less protein than vegetables, beans, nuts, and other high protein foods; hence they don't fall under the category of high-protein foods – fruits can add additional protein to your diet, every little bit counts....

WHAT THE DATE LABELS ON YOUR FOOD ACTUALLY MEAN

Lai Cheng June 4, 2024 0 Comments

Most of us would check the dates on a packaged food before making a decision on whether to keep or toss it out. But do you know: Dates on food labels are the manufacturers’ best guess about how long a food will taste freshest; after that date, the quality gradually declines. Most date labels tell you about a food's quality, not safety, US food experts say. “There is nothing concrete for...

LISTEN TO UNDERSTAND (A wisdom story)

Lai Cheng June 4, 2024 0 Comments

A disciple asked his Master: “What should a decent and respectful human being do to understand the real-world situation? What makes a human being out of touch with reality?” After a few moments of quiet stillness, the Master answered, “Always listen wholeheartedly to both sides and you will be enlightened; listen to only one side and you will be left in the dark.” (Moral of the story:...

A PEDESTRIAN-FRIENDLY SHOPPING STREET

Lai Cheng June 4, 2024 0 Comments

When Athens’ Ermou Street went car-free in 1997, there were widespread protests from shopkeepers and taxi drivers. Today it is a thriving destination, as the centre of trade in the city, and one of the busiest shopping streets in Europe. ~ Melissa & Chris Bruntlett @modacitylife

Ministry of Health bans sale of two types of spice products from India

Lai Cheng May 31, 2024 0 Comments

The Health Ministry has issued an order to stop the sale of two spice products from India suspected of containing ethylene oxide, an active ingredient in detergents. "Any traders, including online traders, who have stocks of these products are directed to stop the sale of the related products. "All e-commerce platforms and social media are requested to immediately cease advertisements for these...

Author: Lai Cheng