Kidney-damaging jaggery? How this 'healthy' sweetener could be slowly harming your internal organs

Jaggery and honey are often considered healthier alternatives to white sugar. Jaggery, a natural sweetener rich in iron, minerals, and antioxidants, is known to boost immunity, aid digestion, and detoxify the liver. It also helps prevent anaemia and provides a steady energy release without causing sudden sugar spikes. Regular consumption of jaggery is believed to improve haemoglobin levels and naturally cleanse the liver. However, recent reports suggest that adulterated jaggery sold in markets could pose serious health risks.

Is jaggery in the market safe?

According to The Times of India (TOI), some jaggery available in the market is being mixed with harmful chemicals that can even damage the kidneys. A report by The New Indian Express highlights that the Food Safety and Drug Administration Department (FDA) recently found adulterated jaggery samples in Bengaluru. These samples contained washing soda and chalk powder, which were used to increase volume. Additionally, chemicals like ‘metanil yellow’ were added to give the jaggery a golden-yellow colour. The report states that such adulteration is more common during festivals, especially to meet the demand for holige (puran poli).

How contaminated packaging affects food

The report also mentions that shops in Bengaluru are packaging food items like milk and oil in single-use plastic sheets. Holige, in particular, is rolled out on these sheets before being placed on hot pans, causing plastic to separate from the sweet. FDA officials warn that heating these plastics releases toxic chemicals such as phthalates, bisphenols (like BPA), and dioxins, which can seep into food. These substances have been linked to hormonal imbalances, reproductive problems, metabolic disorders, and