Lead, a dangerous toxin that affects nerve cells especially younger children, has been found in imported Indian spices and vermillion powder, according to an American study. The researchers at the Children’s General Hospital Boston and Harvard School of Public Health, USA found more than 1 microgram of lead per gram in the samples, which could cause cognitive damage and behavioural changes in children.

The report published in the latest issue of journal Pediatrics also suggested children below the age of six are the most vulnerable to lead poisoning as their bodies can absorb lead easier than adults. Researchers analysed “86 imported spices and 71 ceremonial powders” randomly purchased from Boston-area stores. Some of the findings of the report are:

* Spices such as cardamom, fenugreek, chili powder and ceremonial powder such as vermillion (sindoor) contained more than 1 microgram of lead per gram of product.

* The study found that approximately 25% of Indian spices and other foodstuffs contained detectable traces of lead.

* The report said on average, imported spices contained double the amount of lead found in U.S. brands.

* Some powders were banned or recalled by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), contained over 50-percent lead, still available for sale.

Read the entire report here.
URL: http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/cgi/reprint/116/2/e314