Key Update

Food adulteration in India has reached alarming levels. From vegetables polished with chemicals to fruits coated with wax, consumers unknowingly risk their health every day. What appears fresh and tasty in the market often hides toxic substances beneath. A recent viral instagram video has exposed a disturbing trend — roasted chickpeas, considered a healthy snack, are allegedly being treated with harmful chemicals that can cause cancer.

Chemicals Behind the Shine

In the video, a man demonstrates how most roasted chickpeas sold in markets are adulterated. The contaminated ones appear bright yellow, unusually large, and extremely crunchy. When pressed between fingers, they instantly crumble into powder, unlike natural chickpeas. He explains that sellers use a chemical called auramine to coat the chickpeas, giving them a bright yellow colour similar to turmeric. This process makes them look fresh and appealing, but introduces a toxic substance that can harm the body over time.

Regular consumption of such chemically treated chickpeas can lead to severe health issues, including cancer. While auramine does not alter the chickpea’s protein or fibre content, it forms harmful compounds inside the body with continuous intake.

How to Identify Pure Chickpeas

The video also explains how to identify genuine roasted chickpeas. Natural ones are smaller, have a brown shade, and do not crumble easily. In contrast, adulterated chickpeas are larger, bright yellow, and unnaturally crisp. The man advises people to roast chickpeas at home or buy raw ones and have them roasted in front of them to ensure safety and freshness.

Public Concern Over Food Adulteration

The video, posted on Instagram on October 24, has garnered over three million views. It has sparked widespread concern and discussions on food adulteration, with many users expressing frustration over how common such practices have become and questioning the lack of strict regulation in the food market. The issue has once again underscored the urgent need for stronger food safety checks and enforcement to protect consumers from harmful adulterants.

Source: News 18