Food in India untested for diabetes-linked chemical
A public interest litigation (PIL) moved before the Madras High Court has alleged that Alloxan – a chemical – is mixed with the white flour or ‘maida’ which induces diabetes.
- In this regard, the court has directed the Food Safety Commissioner to examine the allegation within three months and take action if it is found to be correct.
- Alloxan has been banned by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
It is chemical prepared from barbituric acid. It is used in laboratories to induce diabetes in rats and to test the efficacy of anti-diabetic medicines.
- Alloxan’s structure mimics that of glucose, which allows it to be absorbed by the pancreas and once inside the organ, it destroys insulin-producing beta cells.
What’s the concern now?
Global health literature suggests that its presence in flour implies that consumers are at increased risk of diabetes as well as heart disease.
