High lead levels prompt warnings over Aldi tap

CONSUMERS are being urged not to consume or cook with water from a tap sold by Aldi, after tests detected high levels of lead.

The Queensland Building and Construction Commission raised the alarm with the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission at the weekend, and the watchdog has since issued a warning.

QBCC-commissioned tests showed water from the Spiral Spring Mixer Tap, Easy Home brand, model number NI183ESCRT-AUD, had lead levels up to 15 times the maximum set out in Australian’s drinking water guidelines.

“Our initial test results show that there is a cause for concern, and that the tapware may cause lead contamination of drinking water,” QBCC Commissioner Brett Bassett said.

The ACCC has approached Aldi and expects a voluntary recall if the tap is found to pose any health risk to consumers.

“Consumers should avoid drinking water or using them for cooking until more is known about the health risks that may be posed,” the watchdog said on Monday.

The QBCC believes more than 3000 of the taps have been sold in Queensland, and says Queensland Health, which did the testing, is also advising against ingesting water from the units until further notice.

Aldi says the tap went on sale on June 10 this year and was “independently tested and confirmed to comply with Australian standards prior to going on sale”.

It could not immediately say how many of the taps were sold or where.

“Aldi is liaising with the responsible authorities and our supplier to investigate the matter with utmost urgency,” it said.

“If at any stage test results confirm that chemical parameters do not meet regulatory requirements, Aldi will take appropriate action.”

– AAP

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