Sandwich wrap could pose cancer risk - consumer watchdog warns

The alert was issued by the territory's Consumer Council after the Polatex brand wrap was found to contain the substance DEHA, which has been found to cause liver tumours in mice, the Hong Kong iMail reported.

A spokeswoman for the Consumer Council said the chemicals in the plastic wrap could be released into food after a long period of direct contact or after being heated in a microwave oven. The chemical is used to add elasticity and softness to plastic. The sales agent for Polatex, Hip Shing Cheong Co Ltd., said the product was imported from Korea and had passed safety tests. A company official, however, said the firm would hold onto existing stock until further inquiries were made. ¨

(dpa)