What is the extent of the food safety crisis in India?

Data from 2014 to 2026 indicates that one in every four food samples tested in India failed to meet safety standards, highlighting a widespread issue of food adulteration.

What are common chemical contaminants found in Indian food?

Common contaminants include urea and neutralizers in milk, synthetic dyes like metanil yellow and lead chromate in spices, toxic oils like argemone oil in cooking oils, and chemical additives in processed foods.

How can consumers protect themselves from food adulteration?

Consumers should be vigilant by carefully reading food labels, checking for specific declarations, avoiding products with vague ingredients or unnatural colors, and being aware of potential chemical contaminants.

Home / Health / India's Food: A Daily Dose of Poison?

India's Food: A Daily Dose of Poison?

5 Feb

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Summary

One in four food samples failed safety standards between 2014-2026.
Common adulterants include urea in milk and toxic dyes in spices.
Consumers must read labels to protect themselves from chemicals.

India is grappling with a significant food safety crisis, with widespread adulteration posing a threat to public health. Data from 2014 to 2026 reveals that a staggering one in every four food samples failed to meet safety standards.

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MP Raghav Chadha raised concerns in the Rajya Sabha on February 4, 2026, detailing how essential food items are frequently contaminated. Common adulterants include urea and neutralizers in milk, which can lead to kidney damage and digestive issues.

Spices are often adulterated with synthetic dyes like metanil yellow and lead chromate, posing neurotoxic risks. Edible oils may be mixed with toxic substances like argemone oil, potentially causing severe conditions such as epidemic dropsy.