Recently, reports of kaali dal (black gram) allegedly being dyed with synthetic chemicals in Himachal Pradesh have raised serious health concerns. Journalist Neha Sharma shared a video on Instagram, showing that the dal she purchased lost its black color after soaking overnight, revealing a greenish tint underneath.
This alarming discovery has sparked widespread discussions about food adulteration and its impact on health. Holistic health and wellness coach Isha Lall, in an interview with Indianexpress.com, explained the potential dangers of consuming counterfeit dals and how consumers can identify and choose safe, authentic products.
Health Risks of Consuming Fake Dyed Kaali Dal
The adulteration of food, especially with synthetic dyes and chemicals, poses serious health hazards. Here’s what happens to the body when you consume such contaminated dals:
1. Toxic Load on the Liver and Kidneys
Fake food dyes are often laced with heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, or mercury, which can accumulate in the liver and kidneys, leading to toxicity over time. The liver, being the body’s primary detox organ, has to work harder to filter out these toxins.
- Prolonged consumption of such chemicals can lead to liver damage, kidney dysfunction, and metabolic issues.
- Studies indicate that heavy metal exposure increases the risk of liver toxicity and kidney failure by up to 30%.
2. Digestive Problems and Gastrointestinal Distress
Synthetic dyes and chemicals irritate the digestive tract, disrupting normal gut function. Common gastrointestinal symptoms include:
- Nausea, bloating, and indigestion
- Acid reflux and stomach pain
- Altered gut microbiome, leading to poor digestion
Ayurveda emphasizes maintaining digestive fire (agni) for overall health. Fake dyes interfere with this balance, weakening digestion and causing long-term gut health issues.
3. Cancer Risk from Harmful Chemicals
Some artificial food dyes have been linked to carcinogenic effects. The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned against excessive consumption of food-grade dyes like tartrazine, commonly found in adulterated foods.
- Research suggests a connection between certain food dyes and increased cancer risks, especially in the stomach, colon, and liver.
- Regular consumption of fake dyed dals may contribute to chronic inflammation, a key factor in cancer development.
How to Identify Fake Dyed Kaali Dal?
Given the risks, knowing how to differentiate between fake and authentic kaali dal is crucial. Here are a few practical methods:
1. Water Test
- Soak a handful of dal in a glass of water for 20 minutes.
- If the water turns dark, murky, or leaves colored residue, the dal is likely dyed with synthetic chemicals.
- Authentic kaali dal will retain its natural color without excessive bleeding.
2. Rubbing Test
- Take a few grains of the dal and rub them between your palms.
- If the color transfers to your hands, it’s likely artificially dyed.
- Genuine dal does not leave any unnatural residue.
3. Smell Test
- Authentic kaali dal has a mild, earthy aroma.
- Fake dyed dal may have a chemical or artificial smell, especially when washed.
4. Appearance Check
- Natural kaali dal has an uneven surface and varied color tones.
- Fake dal often appears uniformly dark, overly glossy, or unnaturally black, which suggests tampering.
Why Kaali Dal Should Be a Part of Your Regular Diet?
Despite concerns over adulteration, genuine kaali dal remains a nutritional powerhouse. It is one of the most nutrient-dense legumes, rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals.
1. High Protein Content
- One cup of cooked kaali dal provides 14 grams of protein, making it an excellent plant-based protein source for vegetarians and vegans.
- Helps in muscle building, repair, and overall body strength.
2. Supports Digestion and Gut Health
- 15 grams of fiber per serving helps in smooth digestion and prevents constipation.
- Prebiotic properties feed good gut bacteria, strengthening the immune system.
3. Boosts Iron Levels and Prevents Anemia
- Rich in iron, essential for hemoglobin production.
- Particularly beneficial for women, helping to prevent iron-deficiency anemia.
- One serving covers nearly 20% of daily iron needs.
4. Controls Blood Sugar and Reduces Diabetes Risk
- Low glycemic index (GI) helps stabilize blood sugar levels.
- Prevents sudden insulin spikes, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
5. Ayurvedic Benefits
- In Ayurveda, kaali dal balances vata and cools pitta, promoting internal stability.
- It is especially beneficial during colder months, providing warmth and nourishment.
What is the Government Doing About Food Adulteration?
Food adulteration is a serious concern in India. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued guidelines and conducts regular inspections to ensure food safety. However, strict monitoring and consumer awareness are essential to prevent such fraud.
Government Measures:
- FSSAI food testing laboratories frequently check for contaminants in food products.
- Strict penalties for those found guilty of food adulteration.
- Increased consumer education to help people identify fake and adulterated foods.
What Can Consumers Do?
- Buy from trusted sources: Purchase dals from reliable brands or certified organic markets.
- Perform home tests: Simple water or rubbing tests can help detect adulteration.
- Report adulteration cases: Consumers should report suspicious food products to local authorities or food safety officials.
The case of fake dyed kaali dal from Himachal Pradesh is a stark reminder of the growing problem of food adulteration. While improvements in food safety regulations are ongoing, consumer awareness remains the first line of defense against contaminated foods.
- Avoid blindly trusting market-bought dals—always check for authenticity using simple home tests.
- Prioritize health by choosing organic and naturally processed lentils.
- Spread awareness about the dangers of synthetic dyes and food fraud.
By staying informed and making conscious choices, we can protect ourselves and our families from the harmful effects of adulterated food products.
