Health Warning: Lead in Turmeric Found to Exceed Safe Limits by 200 Times in India
Advertisement
Lead levels in turmeric sold in India, Nepal and Pakistan were several times higher than the regulatory limit, according to a new study.
Samples from India’s Patna, and Pakistan’s Karachi and Peshawar had lead levels in turmeric exceeding 1,000 microgram/gram (μg/g), the study published in Science of The Total Environment found. Guwahati and Chennai also saw levels exceeding the regulatory limit set by Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
The regulatory limit for lead in turmeric whole and powder is 10 μg / g, states FSSAI’s Food Safety and Standards Regulations, 2011. Children having blood lead level of 10 µg / L is associated with a loss of 1 intelligence quotient point. While there is no known safe blood lead concentration, even blood lead concentrations as low as 3.5 µg / dL may be associated with decreased intelligence in children, behavioural difficulties and learning problems.
Our comments section is governed by our Comments Policy . By posting comments at Medical Dialogues you automatically agree with our Comments Policy , Terms And Conditions and Privacy Policy .
Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.
NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.