Turmeric, known for its health benefits and used extensively in Indian cuisine and traditional medicine, has been found to contain dangerous levels of lead. A recent study published in Science of the Total Environment The report said lead levels in turmeric samples from areas such as Patna, Karachi and Peshawar exceeded 1,000 micrograms per gram (μg/g), which is below the permissible limit of 10 μg/g set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). g is much more than the permissible limit.
Source of contamination: Lead chromate pigment
The study attributes the contamination to lead chromate, an industrial yellow pigment commonly used in paint, rubber and ceramic coatings. Often, turmeric roots are polished to enhance their color, but the addition of lead chromate for brighter color has raised serious health concerns. Experts advise consumers to buy organic or manual turmeric grind turmeric roots To reduce the risk of adulteration.
Health risks of lead exposure
Lead is a toxic heavy metal that can severely disrupt metabolic processes, affecting many organs and systems. Long-term exposure to high lead levels can cause neurological, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal problems. In particular, lead exposure causes behavioral changes, mood swings, and cognitive impairment, posing a risk to children and adults alike. Heavy metals can also interfere with calcium absorption, increasing the risk of bone and kidney damage, high blood pressure and chronic diseases.
How to reduce the risk: Opt for organic and manual grinding
Experts suggest that the safest way is to get organic turmeric and grind it manually to ensure that it is free from harmful additives. Purchasing whole, unpolished roots and grinding them can significantly reduce the risk of lead contamination, making it a safe choice for daily use.
final thoughts
This study highlights the urgent need to examine the turmeric supply chain in India and Pakistan to enforce strict quality controls. Since turmeric is a staple food in many households, it is important to ensure its purity to avoid long-term health risks associated with lead exposure.
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