Muzaffarpur: Allegations of stale and spoiled vegetables being chemically treated to make them appear fresh and glossy have raised concerns among consumers in the city’s markets. An image linked to the alleged practice has also circulated widely on social media.
The claims have prompted calls for the district administration and food safety authorities to inspect vegetable markets, collect samples and establish through laboratory testing whether any prohibited substances are being used.
Allegations Of Chemical Treatment
According to the allegations, some traders are soaking vegetables that have lost their freshness in chemical solutions before putting them up for sale. The treatment is claimed to restore their green colour and appearance within a short period.
However, there is no official confirmation yet that such a practice is taking place in Muzaffarpur or that a particular chemical is being used. The claims should therefore be verified through inspections and scientific testing.
Health Risks Need Scientific Verification
Concerns have been raised over substances such as Malachite Green and Copper Sulphate, which can pose health risks if improperly used in food. Malachite Green is an industrial dye, while exposure to high levels of copper compounds can cause gastrointestinal and other health problems.
Claims that the alleged treatment will cause cancer or permanent liver and kidney damage should not be presented as established facts without evidence identifying the substance, its concentration and the level of exposure.
Calls For Market Inspections
Residents and social activists have urged food safety officials to conduct surprise inspections and collect samples from markets where suspicious vegetables are being sold.
Laboratory analysis would be necessary to determine whether vegetables contain prohibited dyes, chemicals or other contaminants and whether any food safety regulations have been violated.
How Consumers Can Be Cautious
Consumers can avoid vegetables that have an unusually artificial appearance, excessive shine or colour that appears inconsistent with their natural condition. Washing vegetables thoroughly under running water before preparation is also advisable.
Social media tests, such as rubbing vegetables with cotton or checking whether soaking water changes colour, cannot by themselves establish that a vegetable has been chemically treated. Laboratory testing remains the reliable method for confirming adulteration.
