As of Monday (June 1), the Sri Lankan government has mandated that imported dried fish, sprats, and fruits be tested for heavy elements like lead and arsenic.
The decision was made following the discovery that certain consignments of imported dried fish, sprats, and fruits contain significant amounts of heavy metals, including lead and arsenic, according to a survey undertaken by the Food Control Administration Unit of the Health Ministry between 2021 and 2022.
The analysis found that certain imported fruit supplies have dangerously high amounts of lead, a highly hazardous heavy element.
The Food Control Administration Unit has warned the importers to make sure that imported dried fish, sprats, and fruits do not contain more heavy metals and arsenic than is allowed.
The Food Control Administration Unit has established a dedicated contact line (011 2112718) for future questions in this respect.
