In a concerning revelation, a recent report by the European Food Safety Authority has identified cancer-related chemicals in 527 food products originating from India, reports appearing in the media said.
Spanning from September 2020 to April 2024, this finding raises questions about the safety of Indian food items.
Among the affected products, 332 are domestically manufactured, amplifying concerns over local food safety standards.
The chemical in question, ethylene oxide, previously found in spices from Everest and MDH brands, was predominantly detected in dry fruits and seeds, totaling 313 items.
Additionally, it was found in 60 items of herbs and spices, 48 diet-related items, and 34 other food products.
Moreover, the report highlighted that 87 consignments were rejected at the border due to the presence of ethylene oxide.
While some items had already entered the market, swift actions were taken to remove them from circulation, the report added.
Ethylene oxide, primarily used as a pesticide in agriculture and a sterilizing agent, is banned for food applications due to its health risks.
Prolonged exposure to ethylene oxide is associated with an increased risk of stomach and breast cancer, stomach infections, and other diseases.
Furthermore, it poses threats to DNA, the brain, and the nervous system, potentially leading to lymphoma and leukemia, according to the American National Cancer Institute.