Nagpur: Diwali, which is around the corner, is a festival synonymous with celebrations, lights, and of course, an array of mouth-watering sweets. However, behind the enticing display of delicacies lies a bitter truth — adulteration is rampant during the festive season, posing a serious health risk to consumers.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and other regulatory bodies intensify their actions during Diwali by conducting raids across Nagpur and other cities to curb this menace, but what they uncover is merely the tip of the iceberg.
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Adulterators often mix harmful substances into common ingredients like milk, khoa (thickened milk), and ghee, which form the foundation of many traditional sweets. Shocking instances have been reported where milk is mixed with white paint, toilet paper crushed and blended into khoa, and animal fat used in place of ghee. These adulterants can have severe health consequences, turning the joy of the festival into a dangerous gamble.
Despite the best efforts of authorities, many unscrupulous traders find ways to dodge the system and continue with their harmful practices. They skilfully hide the adulteration, making it almost impossible to detect with the naked eye. Experts warn that many sweets are laced with harmful chemicals such as starch, urea, caustic soda (used to whiten khoa), synthetic dyes, and other additives. These ingredients not only lower the quality but can be outright toxic.
Health experts strongly advise consumers to remain vigilant while purchasing sweets during Diwali. While the dazzling colours and elegant packaging might tempt you, it is essential to remember that what you’re consuming could be far from pure. In fact, the chemicals used to enhance the appearance of sweets could be more harmful than they seem.
The state of hygiene in many sweet-making establishments is another cause for concern. Municipal Corporation and health officials often overlook the unhygienic conditions in which sweets are prepared. Inspections of some kitchens would likely lead to immediate closure, yet enforcement remains lenient. Open displays of sweets on the streets, especially in busy areas of Nagpur, only add to the risk as flies and dust settle on uncovered items.
Nagpur’s bustling streets are filled with festive energy, and the city’s traditional sweet shops have been a part of its cultural identity for decades. However, despite the rise of gift-packed sweets, local sweet preparations still dominate the market. Unfortunately, many vendors have resorted to setting up makeshift kitchens and encroaching on sidewalks, further exacerbating hygiene issues.
As Diwali approaches, consumers must prioritize health and safety by staying alert to the risks of adulterated sweets. Opt for reputed vendors and avoid street-side stalls that lack proper hygiene. After all, celebrating Diwali should bring joy, not risk to your well-being.
