A recent study has revealed elevated lead levels in several turmeric samples sold in India, Nepal, and Pakistan.
These levels exceed the regulatory limit of 1,000 micrograms per gram (µg/g) for each dose.
FSSAI establishes a limit of 10 µg/g for lead content in turmeric
The maximum permissible lead concentration in turmeric is established at 10 µg/g by India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority (FSSAI).
The research, published in Science of The Total Environment, examined turmeric from 23 cities in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, showing that approximately 14% of the samples had lead levels above 2 µg/g.
Researchers from Stanford University, alongside Pure Earth and India’s Freedom Employability Academy, indicated that the metal can disrupt vital bodily functions by impersonating calcium and building up in bones.
Turmeric lead concentrations surpassed 10 µg/g from a total of seven cities: Patna, Guwahati, and Chennai in India, as well as Kathmandu in Nepal, and Karachi, Islamabad, and Peshawar in Pakistan.
In India, Patna noted the highest measurement at 2,274 µg/g, with Guwahati coming next at 127 µg/g. Notably, polished turmeric roots, frequently utilized for aesthetic enhancement, exhibited the highest levels of contamination, with loose powders coming in second.
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Packaged and labeled turmeric items had comparatively lower lead levels, indicating that unbranded and less regulated types of turmeric might be more prone to contamination.
Lead contamination in turmeric can pose significant risks to children
Although lead contamination in turmeric is not against the law, it can pose significant risks, especially to children. It has been associated with problems such as decreased intelligence, behavioral issues, and developmental delays in youngsters.
Globally, it is estimated that more than 800 million children have blood lead levels that are considerably higher than safe limits.
