According to a study that was published in the journal Science of the Total Environment, turmeric samples from Pakistan’s Karachi and Peshawar, as well as India’s Patna, had dangerously high levels of lead—more than 1,000 micrograms per gram (μg/g).
In accordance with the guidelines established by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), samples from Chennai and Guwahati also exceeded the limit.
The study also noted that lead chromate, a yellow pigment used in paints, rubber, plastics, and ceramic coatings, was the most likely source of lead in turmeric samples.
FSSAI Standard
The Food Safety and Standards (Contaminants, Toxins And Residues) Regulations, 2011 of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) state that the maximum amount of lead that can be found in turmeric powder and whole is 10 μg/g.
What is Lead?
One heavy metal that mimics calcium, which is contained in bone, is lead.
Human metabolic processes are disrupted, which affects IQ and raises the risk of heart disease, kidney failure, and early mortality.
Side effects of consuming lead
One intelligence quotient point is lost in children whose blood lead levels are 10 µg/L. It is estimated that 413 million children worldwide have blood lead levels over 100 µg/L, and 815 million children have levels over 50 µg/L.
They are also known to induce behavioral changes, such as headaches, irritability, mood swings, and sleep difficulties.
Additionally, it results in weight loss, cramping, loss of appetite, and stomach pain.
According to the study, consuming turmeric containing lead at these concerning levels would increase the risk of lead poisoning, which is particularly harmful to children and adults.
The Analysis
While the World Health Organization says that no amount of lead ingestion is safe, their investigation revealed that 14% of turmeric samples had lead levels higher than 2 μg/g.
The highest levels in Patna and Guwahati, India, were 2,274 μg/g and 127 μg/g, respectively. According to the study, samples in both locations came from Bihar.
The most contaminated turmeric roots were found to be polished, followed by unpolished roots, loose powder, and packaged branded powder.
The study also found that lead chromate, a yellow pigment used in paints, rubber, plastics, and ceramic coatings, was the most likely source of lead in turmeric samples.
In numerous nations, including Bangladesh and the US, lead poisoning has been connected to spices adulterated with lead chromate.
Date: 16th November 2024
Time: 10:00 AM – 05:00 PM
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