MFDA Warns Food Businesses Against Reusing Plastic Bottles for Packaging

=The Maldives Food and Drug Authority has issued a warning prohibiting food businesses from using discarded single use plastic water and soft drink bottles to package food items for commercial sale, citing potential health risks to consumers.

In a statement released today, the authority said it had observed several food establishments repurposing empty beverage bottles to store and sell a range of food products. MFDA stressed that this practice is unsafe and does not comply with food safety standards.

According to the authority, most water and soft drink bottles are manufactured using Polyethylene Terephthalate, commonly known as PET, which is designed for single use and for specific types of beverages. The material is not intended for repeated use or for storing other food products.

MFDA explained that repackaging various food and drink items in such bottles can lead to chemical substances from the plastic leaching into the contents, especially when bottles are reused, exposed to heat, or improperly cleaned. This process may result in adverse health effects for consumers over time.

The authority said the continued use of recycled bottles and unsuitable plastic bags for food packaging poses a significant public health concern. It urged all food businesses to immediately stop the practice and ensure that food items are packaged only in approved, food grade containers.

MFDA reiterated that compliance with proper packaging standards is essential to safeguarding consumer health and maintaining food safety across the market. Businesses were advised to review their packaging methods and adopt appropriate alternatives that meet regulatory requirements.