Aduc: beware of fake sunglasses

With the arrival of summer and the increase in the strength of the sun's rays, Aduc (the Association for the rights of Italian users and consumers), published a reminder about the importance of wearing sunglasses, the main aim of which is to protect the eyes from the sun's rays. But to do this, quality sunglasses are required.

'There's a strong temptation to go to the first street stall because of the difference between the prices at the traditional optician's store and those offered by street traders', said Aduc Secretary Primo Mastrantoni. However, 'unlike the fake designer purse which won't damage your health in any way, the purchase of sunglasses which do not conform to legal prescriptions can damage sight, i.e. cataract, macular degeneration and conjunctivitis' Mastrantoni stated.

'Illegal sunglasses are those sold on street or beach stalls by part-time vendors who are often immigrants.' So how do you choose a good pair of glasses? 'Sunglasses must be accompanied by the information leaflet, which is also a legal requirement, which gives the name of the maker or agent, the level of protection, the category (from 0 to 4), use limitations, instructions for use and the CE symbol' Mastrantoni explained.

'Certainly all this is not sufficient, because the information leaflet could be attached to a pair of fake glasses. So? All you can do is consult your optician', he concluded.