Nov 26, 2024
Shocking study reveals dangerous lead contamination in turmeric from south asia
Siddhartha JanaA recent study found dangerously high amounts of lead pollution in turmeric from South Asian countries such as India, Pakistan, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.
Source: Canva
Lead levels in certain turmeric samples exceeded 1,000 microgrammes per gramme, despite India's regulatory limit of 10 μg/g, highlighting the severity of the situation.
Source: Canva
Cities such as Patna and Guwahati had lead levels of up to 2,274 μg/g, exceeding the allowed threshold.
Source: Canva
Lead contamination in turmeric is frequently induced by adulteration, in which non-food chemicals such as lead chromate are added to improve colour, posing a major health concern.
Source: Canva
Lead poisoning can induce rapid symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, exhaustion, headaches, and cognitive impairment, particularly in children.
Source: Canva
Long-term exposure to lead in turmeric can cause brain damage, kidney problems, cardiovascular illness, and reproductive health issues.
Source: Canva
Although therapies such as chelation therapy can eliminate lead from the bloodstream, the damage to organs, notably the brain system and kidneys, is frequently irreversible.
Source: Canva
Experts emphasise the importance of stricter laws, enforcement, and public awareness in protecting consumers from the dangers of lead-contaminated turmeric in the region.
Source: Canva
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