Produced by: Manoj Kumar
Jaggery, often seen as a healthy alternative to sugar, is sometimes laced with harmful chemicals, putting consumers at risk.
To boost color and weight, some jaggery contains washing soda, chalk powder, and metanil yellow—substances dangerous to human health.
Metanil yellow, an illegal dye, can cause liver and kidney damage, nausea, and nervous system issues when consumed.
Used for cleaning, washing soda in jaggery can lead to stomach burns, ulcers, vomiting, and internal injuries.
Demand spikes during festivals like Holige lead to higher chances of adulteration, making festive sweets potentially hazardous.
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Food like holige is often rolled on single-use plastics that release toxins when heated—leading to hormonal issues and cancer risks.
Even without chemical tampering, poorly stored or unhygienically made jaggery can be contaminated with dirt, dust, or heavy metals.
Pure jaggery is dark brown and uneven, while adulterated versions may appear bright yellow or unnaturally smooth—a visual clue for shoppers.
To avoid danger, buy organic jaggery from trusted brands, check texture and color, and store it safely to prevent contamination.