GUWAHATI: A recent study conducted across Southeast Asia has uncovered alarming levels of lead contamination in the turmeric sold across major markets in ther , including Guwahati. This lead rating exceeds the traditional safe limits set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
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According to 'Down To Earth,' a study in the journal Science of The Total Environment, researchers found the city’s turmeric samples with lead levels exceeding FSSAI’s limit of 10 micrograms per gram (μg/g), with certain samples reaching as high as 127 μg/g. The contamination is particularly severe in polished turmeric roots, where lead chromate—a yellow pigment commonly used in paint—may be used to give the roots a brighter appearance.
Unpolished roots showed the lowest contamination levels, followed by branded, packaged powders. As for loose turmeric powder, which often lacks strict regulation, it was found to contain significantly higher lead levels than branded varieties.
Lead contamination in turmeric can occur through various channels, including exposure to contaminated soil, water, and equipment during processing. In some cases, lead-laced compounds are also added to intensify the spice's colour.
This contamination poses a significant health risk, particularly to children. Lead behaves like calcium in the body and can be stored in bones, leading to disruptions in normal bodily functions. Health experts also warn that even small lead exposures in children can lead to lowered IQ, behavioural issues, and learning disabilities.
