Watch what you eat

LAHORE: Food adulteration is primarily driven by the desire for increased profits. However, this practice not only makes products more expensive but also jeopardizes consumer health. The federal and provincial governments have the power to alleviate these issues through stricter regulations and enforcement.

Milk is particularly susceptible to various forms of adulteration. One common adulterant is formaldehyde, a highly toxic chemical known to be a carcinogen. Consuming milk treated with formaldehyde can lead to serious health problems, including respiratory issues, gastrointestinal disturbances, and an increased risk of cancer.

Antibiotics such as penicillin and streptomycin, used to extend milk’s shelf life, can cause allergic reactions in some people. Their overuse also contributes to antibiotic resistance, which poses a significant public health risk. Hydrogen peroxide, while used in small amounts as a disinfectant, can cause irritation and digestive issues if ingested.

Sodium bicarbonate, although generally safe in small quantities, can disrupt the body’s acid-base balance if overused in milk. Urea, when consumed in large amounts, can be toxic and may lead to kidney damage and other health complications. Hair removal chemicals, not intended for ingestion, can cause severe digestive and respiratory problems if consumed.

While animal fat, palm oil, and vegetable oil are not harmful in moderation, their excessive use to mimic butter oil can be risky. Animal fats are high in saturated fats, which can elevate cholesterol levels and contribute to heart disease when consumed in large quantities.

In ghee, the addition of potato mash is usually not harmful but is deceptive and can affect the product’s nutritional value. Stearin oil, a by-product of soap production, is not meant for consumption and can cause digestive issues and toxicity if ingested regularly.

The addition of carcinogenic yellow dyes to turmeric poses a serious cancer risk. These dyes can damage DNA and lead to uncontrolled cell growth, resulting in tumours. Long-term exposure, even in small amounts, is particularly dangerous.

While chalk or powder might not be immediately toxic, they are not intended for ingestion. Consuming sugar adulterated with these substances can lead to digestive problems such as stomach discomfort or constipation. Prolonged consumption could result in more severe health issues, including kidney stones or other mineral deposit-related conditions.

Pumping water into meat post-slaughter is more of an economic fraud than a direct health hazard. Nonetheless, it dilutes the meat’s nutritional value and can increase the risk of bacterial contamination, which may lead to foodborne illnesses if the meat is not properly cooked.

In Pakistan, expiry dates are not mandated for personal care products such as toothpaste, soaps and shampoos. Using these items past their expiry date can lead to serious health risks.

Expired toothpaste may lose its effectiveness in cleaning and preventing cavities, as active ingredients like fluoride may degrade. Soaps and shampoos may become less effective or harbour bacteria and mould, potentially causing skin irritations or infections.

To ensure safety, it is essential to avoid adulterated products and seek out authentic, quality-assured alternatives. The federal and provincial governments should consider making food adulteration a non-bailable offence, with severe penalties and imprisonment of at least one year to deter such practices.