Over half of tested reading specs fail to list key details to prevent eye strain

More than half of the reading glasses tested by Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog failed to label pupillary distance, a key measurement for aligning lenses to ensure clear vision and reduced risk of eye strain.The Consumer Council tested 17 models of ready-to-wear reading glasses between January and May this year, with the claimed degree of presbyopia for all models being +2.50 or +2.5 dioptres – commonly known as 250 degrees.The product prices also ranged from HK$8 to HK$490.The watchdog’s results showed that although all models performed satisfactorily in terms of mechanical strength and stability, resistance to ignition, nickel release and drop tests, most lacked the labelling and warning statements required under European standards.Among them, only seven models indicated their pupillary distance – a key measurement for comfort and visual alignment – or optical centre distance (OCD). The brands included Guanhao, Haomenglai Glasses and several sold at stalls in Sham Shui Po.The remaining 10 did not meet the standard requirement for permanent marking, making it difficult for consumers to choose suitable products, with such brands including Agoeyewear, Daiso and those sold at home care supply chain JHC.“If the pupillary distance of the lenses does not match the wearer’s pupillary distance, the lenses cannot align accurately with the pupils. This creates unnecessary prism effects,” the council said in a statement.