The Korea Consumer Agency (KCA) revealed on January 23 that an inspection of 10 different types of rubber balloons currently being sold on the market detected the presence of carcinogens in six. (Image: Yonhap)
SEOUL, Jan. 24 (Korea Bizwire) — The Korea Consumer Agency (KCA) revealed on January 23 that an inspection detected the presence of carcinogens in six of 10 different types of rubber balloons currently available on the market.
The problematic balloons were found to contain N-nitrosamines and substances that could potentially produce N-nitrosamines. N-nitrosamines are cancer-causing agents that when ingested can lead to liver, kidney or lung ailments as well as engender problems with the eyes, nose and skin.
The balloons with the highest N-nitrosamine concentrations detected exceeded the European Union’s limit of 0.05mg/kg with measurements of 0.06-0.53mg/kg, nearly 10 times higher than the safety limit.
Nine rubber balloon products, meanwhile, were recorded with 1.2-4.4mg/kg of substances that could potentially produce N-nitrosamine, also exceeding the European Union’s limit set at 1mg/kg. (Image: Yonhap)
Nine rubber balloon products, meanwhile, were recorded with 1.2-4.4mg/kg of substances that could potentially produce N-nitrosamine, also exceeding the European Union’s limit set at 1mg/kg.
Domestically, the presence of N-nitrosamine in products manufactured using synthetic resins is unregulated, with the notable exception of baby pacifiers.
Based on the results of the inspection, the KCA stated that restrictions need to be expanded to include a larger variety of products to ensure child safety.
S.B.W. (sbw266@koreabizwire.com)
