When it comes to white sugar alternatives, jaggery and honey are often considered to be healthier choices. The former is a natural sweetener rich in iron, minerals, and antioxidants that boosts immunity, aids digestion, and detoxifies the liver. It also helps prevent anemia and provides a steady energy release without sudden sugar spikes. But, what if this alternative becomes the reason for your illness? Yes, you read it right. As per recent reports, jaggery available in market is being adulterated with potential chemicals that can even damage the kidney. Scroll down to find out.
As per a news report by The New Indian Express, the Food Safety and Drug Administration Department (FDA) recently came across adulterated samples of jaggery in Bengaluru, which had washing soda and chalk powder mixed in it to increase the volume. It also included additives like ‘metanil yellow’ to give a golden-yellow hue. It has been reported that this adulteration is being done to meet the the demands of holige (puran poli) during the festive seasonThe news report says that the shops in the state are using single-plastic sheets for packaging milk and oils. They roll holige on plastic sheets and then place them on hot pans until the plastic separates from the sweet. It is said that when these single-use plastic sheets are heated, they release toxic chemicals into the food. As per the FDA official statement to The New Indian Express, these plastics contain harmful substances like phthalates, bisphenols (such as BPA) and dioxins, which leach into food when exposed to heat. And they can be very harmful for the body, and may cause hormonalimbalances, reproductive problems, metabolic disorders and even an increased risk of cancer.
Side effects of washing soda
Washing soda (sodium carbonate) is a highly alkaline chemical used for cleaning and industrial purposes. It is not safe for human consumption and can cause severe health issues like burning sensation in the mouth, throat, and stomach. It can also cause vomiting and diarrhea. Its alkalinity may cause tissue burns and ulcers in the digestive tract.
Side effects of consuming metanil yellow
Metanil yellow is a non-permitted synthetic food dye often illegally used in foods like sweets, turmeric, and pulses. It is toxic to the body and can cause severe health issues like nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea. Also, its prolonged intake by humans can affect the liver and kidneys, leading to toxicity and organ failure. As per a research published on ResearchGate titled Metanil yellow: The toxic food colorant, states that metanil yellow causes ototoxicity, hepatotoxicity, and damages the intestine. It also states that metanil yellow generates oxidative stress in various vital organs such as heart, liver, and kidneys. It also has negative effects on the nervous system.
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