Sugars are bad for you. The health impact gets worse as they become more refined. When dangerous adulterants are added, sugar might rank as one of the most toxic ingredients in your kitchen drawer.
Chalk powder, urea, washing soda, and plastic crystals are some common adulterants that are added to sugar. The first two are added to sugar crystals while the latter two are added to powdered sugar.
Here are the harmful effects of 4 major sugar adulterants found in India and how to check their presence in sugar:
Urea:
A white, crystalline powder is urea. It contains a lot of nitrogen and is commonly used in agriculture. Urea has hazardous effects on several organs, both directly and indirectly, according to a study that was published in The Atlas of Science. In our bodies, the liver is where small amounts of urea are created. The bladder next receives the kidneys' removal of it. A high urea level indicates a heavy burden on the kidneys. It can negatively impact mental health when used in large dosages. A high urea level alters the gut flora and results in intestinal wall inflammation and cell death.
How to Detect Urea in Sugar?
Although urea is soluble in water, it releases a distinct ammonia odor when it does so. To detect the presence of urea, dissolve a small amount of sugar in water and smell the solution.
Chalk Powder:
To make sugar more colorful and heavier, chalk is often added. The chalk that is put to sugar will only contain calcium carbonate unless the chalk itself is contaminated. In moderation, chalk is not particularly dangerous, but once consumed, the calcium may combine with oxalates inside the digestive tract to form calcium oxalate crystals, which may deposit in the kidney as kidney stones.
How to Detect Chalk Powder in Sugar?
Calcium carbonate is insoluble in water. Wait 10 minutes after sugar is added to the water. If there is any chalk, it will settle as an undissolved white powder.
Washing Soda:
Washing soda should not be consumed because it can result in vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea.
How to Detect Washing Soda in Sugar?
Shake the water and sugar mixture until the sugar is thoroughly dissolved. It will foam if there is washing powder in it.
Plastic Crystals:
Ingesting plastic can lead to cancer. In urban cities like Hyderabad (particularly old Hyderabad), Patna, Delhi, and Bengaluru, it is frequently used to adulterate beverages.
How to Detect Plastic Crystals in Sugar?
In water, plastic is insoluble. To dissolve sugar, add a pinch to cool water. Plastic or any other impurities will make up any undissolved particles.
To avoid getting adulterated sugar, avoid buying loose sugar when shopping.
