Chennai: The Tamil Nadu Food Safety Department has cautioned the public against consuming drinking water from 20-litre cans that are stored in direct sunlight, warning that it may lead to hormonal changes in the body.
With summer heat driving up demand, water cans are being sold widely at prices ranging from Rs 30 to Rs 50. However, the department noted complaints that many vendors are not following proper handling guidelines, including keeping cans outside where sunlight falls directly and transporting them in open vehicles during peak heat.
Officials said exposure to sunlight can trigger chemical changes inside the cans, allowing plastic micro-particles and chemicals to mix with the water. They added that substances from polycarbonate and other chemicals may leach into the water, potentially affecting the endocrine system, causing hormonal disruption and increasing the risk of cancer.
The department also highlighted quality parameters for drinking water, stating that calcium should be between 10 and 75 mg per litre and magnesium between 5 and 30 mg per litre. It warned that if TDS levels in water drop due to heat, it could contribute to bone-related problems.
As preventive steps, officials advised storing cans only in cool or shaded areas, avoiding use if the can’s colour changes, and limiting a single can’s reuse to about 30 to 50 cycles. Complaints against violators can be filed through the Tamil Nadu Food Safety Department app or at https://www.foodsafety.tn.gov.in, with penalties up to Rs 5,000 and possible criminal action.
