Brussels, A report by the European Food Safety Authority has identified ethylene oxide, a chemical linked to cancer, in 527 food products from India. The Kashmir Media Service stated that the findings were published in media reports spanning from September 2020 to April 2024, raising significant concerns about the safety of Indian food products.

According to Kashmir Media Service, 332 are domestically manufactured, signaling potential issues with local food safety standards. The chemical was predominantly detected in dry fruits and seeds, totaling 313 items. It was also found in 60 items of herbs and spices, 48 diet-related items, and 34 other food products.

Ethylene oxide is used as a pesticide in agriculture and a sterilizing agent, but its application in food production is banned due to health risks. Prolonged exposure to ethylene oxide has been associated with an increased risk of stomach and breast cancer, stomach infections, and other diseases. It also poses risks to DNA, the brain, and the nervous system, potentially leading to lymphoma and leukemia, as per the American National Cancer Institute.

The report further noted that 87 consignments were rejected at the border due to the presence of ethylene oxide, and while some items had already entered the market, swift action was taken to remove them from circulation.

These revelations raise questions about the safety of Indian food items and highlight the need for stringent safety regulations and oversight to ensure the well-being of consumers.