Mumbai: Two family members lost their lives, and two others fell ill after consuming roasted chickpeas in Barwala village, located in the Narsera area of Uttar Pradesh’s Bulandshahr district, officials reported on Monday, November 25.
The incident occurred on Sunday evening, as per Assistant Food Commissioner Vineet Kumar. The family had purchased the roasted chickpeas from a local market, and shortly after consumption, they started vomiting. Kumar confirmed that Kalua (45) and Golu (8) passed away soon after, while the other two affected family members are being treated at a nearby hospital.
This case serves as a grim reminder of the growing issue of food adulteration, which is not only widespread but also life-threatening. In this article, we will discuss how to detect adulteration in roasted chickpeas and the harmful effects of such practices.
Roasted chickpeas or gram, traditionally seen as a healthy snack option, can pose serious health risks when adulterated. Adulteration in roasted chickpeas is a serious concern, as harmful chemicals and non-permitted substances are often added to enhance their appearance and size. It is essential to stay vigilant while purchasing roasted chickpeas to ensure you are not consuming contaminated products.
Adulteration in roasted chickpeas: Health risk you might not be aware of
Chemicals are used to make the chickpeas appear plumper and more yellow, but this aesthetic manipulation can be dangerous for health. One such chemical is Auramine, a synthetic colourant that is not approved for human consumption.
Over time, this chemical can accumulate in the body and may lead to severe health conditions, including cancer. Despite its vibrant colour and appealing size, the adulterated chickpeas is far from the nutritious snack it is believed to be. Its misleading appearance can fool consumers into thinking they are consuming a healthy product when in reality, it could be causing harm.
To avoid consuming contaminated chickpeas, it is crucial to be cautious when purchasing this snack. It’s recommended to avoid buying excessively large and brightly coloured grams, as these are often the result of adulteration.
A safer alternative is to buy raw chickpeas and roast them yourself, or purchase them from trustworthy vendors who roast them in front of you. This ensures that you are consuming gram in its pure, natural form without any added chemicals.
Natural roasted chickpeas benefits
When eaten in its natural, unadulterated form, roasted chickpeas offers a variety of health benefits. It is an excellent source of fibre and vitamins, which are essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system.
Roasted chickpeas can also aid in weight management due to its high fibre content, which promotes satiety and reduces overall calorie intake. Additionally, it helps regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for individuals managing diabetes.
Roasted chickpeas are also rich in protein and essential minerals, which contribute to muscle strength and overall body vitality. By being mindful of the risks associated with adulteration and choosing to buy chickpeas from trusted sources, you can continue to enjoy the numerous health benefits it offers without compromising your health. Additionally, share this information with others to create awareness.
The loss of lives due to adulterated roasted chickpeas in Uttar Pradesh is a stark reminder of the dangers of food adulteration. By staying informed and adopting cautious purchasing habits, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from the harmful effects of adulterated food. Always prioritise your health by choosing authentic and safe food products.
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