Consider the following pairs : Commonly used / consumed mate

Consider the following pairs :

Commonly used / consumed materialsUnwanted or controversial chemicals likely to be found in them
1.LipstickLead
2.Soft drinksBrominated vegetable oils
3.Chinese fast foodMonosodium glutamate

Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched ?

1 only
2 and 3 only
1 and 3 only
1, 2 and 3
This question was previously asked in
UPSC IAS – 2017
The correct answer is D) 1, 2 and 3. All three pairs are correctly matched, identifying commonly found or controversial chemicals in the respective products.
– Lipstick: Trace amounts of lead have been a subject of concern and regulatory limits in some lipsticks. Lead can be present as a contaminant in color additives.
– Soft drinks: Brominated Vegetable Oils (BVOs) have been used as an emulsifier in some citrus-flavored soft drinks to keep flavor oils suspended. While the use has declined and is banned in some regions, it has been a common ingredient.
– Chinese fast food: Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a widely used flavour enhancer derived from glutamic acid. It is commonly used in many processed foods and cuisines, including Chinese fast food, to enhance savoury taste.
These substances have varying levels of health concern and regulatory status. Lead in lipstick is generally a contaminant at very low levels. BVOs have faced scrutiny and are being phased out by some manufacturers. MSG is generally recognized as safe by regulatory bodies in many countries, although some individuals report sensitivity to it. Awareness of such chemicals in common products is increasing among consumers.