New Delhi: Going grocery shopping, many people rarely realise that the sugar, salt, milk, honey and other basic daily-use items of the house could be adulterated. Turns out, even milk could be adulterated with water or detergents or other chemicals that can a negative toll on health in a long run, which is contrary to the prime purpose or becoming healthier instead. Food adulteration is the illegal practice of adding inferior or harmful substances to food. This can be done to make food look better, last longer, or increase profit margins for food companies. However, it can have serious health consequences for consumers.
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr. Shrey Srivastava – General Physician at Sharda Hospital, spoke about the most common types of food adulterants. The expert also listed the possible health outcomes of regularly consuming such foods. Read on to know more.
Milk Adulteration
Adulterant: Water, starch, maltodextrin, chalk powder, hydrogen peroxide (to whiten)
Side Effects: Reduced nutritional value (protein, calcium), digestive issues (diarrhea, bloating), kidney problems (from excess minerals in adulterants).
Spice Adulteration
Adulterant: Cassia (instead of cinnamon), brick powder (for color), sawdust (for bulking), lead chromate (yellow dye)
Side Effects: Respiratory problems (from inhaling dust), allergic reactions, lead poisoning (damage to nervous system, kidneys).
Honey Adulteration
Adulterant: Corn syrup, high-fructose corn syrup, rice syrup (cheaper substitutes)
Side Effects: Reduced health benefits of honey (antibacterial properties), potential weight gain (high fructose corn syrup).
Edible Oil Adulteration
Adulterant: Palm oil (cheaper), mineral oil (improves shelf life)
Side Effects: Increased cholesterol (palm oil), digestive issues (mineral oil), vitamin deficiencies (mineral oil interferes with vitamin absorption).
Fruit Juice Adulteration
Adulterant: Corn syrup, sugar, artificial flavors, coloring agents, water
Side Effects: Reduced vitamin and mineral content, weight gain (high sugar content), potential allergic reactions (from artificial ingredients).
In an interaction with News9Live, Dr. Shrey Srivastava – General Physician at Sharda Hospital, spoke about the most common types of food adulterants. The expert also listed the possible health outcomes of regularly consuming such foods. Read on to know more. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
