Hyderabad residents face a looming health threat as a recent study conducted by the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) reveals alarming levels of Aflatoxin (AF) contamination in rice sold in local markets. The analysis, which assessed rice samples from various markets across the city, found that the samples exceeded the permissible limits set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), indicating a significant cancer risk to consumers.
Aflatoxins (AFs), potent carcinogens produced by certain moulds, primarily Aspergillus species, pose immediate health hazards and have acute toxicological effects in humans and animals. Consumption of rice contaminated with AFs can lead to severe health complications, including liver cancer, hepatotoxicity, immunotoxicity, and teratogenicity.
According to the study, the average liver cancer risk associated with rice consumption in Hyderabad is estimated to be 0.27, 0.28, and 0.40 cases/year/100,000 individuals in adults, adolescents, and children, respectively. This underscores the urgent need for measures to mitigate the health risks posed by AF exposure through rice consumption.
“It’s crucial to recognize that the severity of health effects depends on various factors, including the level and duration of aflatoxin exposure, individual susceptibility, and nutritional status,” highlighted one of the researchers and NIN Food Safety official. Preventive measures to address aflatoxin contamination in rice are essential for safeguarding public health and reducing the incidence of aflatoxin-related diseases.
Addressing the preventive measures, the official emphasized the importance of implementing a comprehensive approach to prevent aflatoxin contamination in rice production, storage, and distribution. This is particularly vital in developing countries, where limited resources may hinder effective food safety practices.
The findings of the study underscore the urgent need for regulatory interventions and industry efforts to ensure the safety and quality of rice sold in local markets. Heightened awareness among consumers, along with stringent enforcement of food safety regulations, is imperative to protect public health and mitigate the risks associated with aflatoxin contamination in rice.
