Which of the following substances are harmful for health if present in food items?
- 1. Pesticide residues
- 2. Lead
- 3. Metanil yellow
- 4. Mercury
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
1 and 2 only
1, 2 and 4 only
3 and 4 only
1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer is Wrong!
Answer is Right!
This question was previously asked in
UPSC NDA-1 – 2016
– **Lead:** A heavy metal that is highly toxic and can accumulate in the body, causing severe health problems, especially in children. It can enter food through contaminated water, soil, or processing equipment.
– **Metanil yellow:** A non-permitted food colour often used illegally to colour food items like sweets and spices. It is a harmful chemical that can cause neurological damage and other health issues.
– **Mercury:** Another toxic heavy metal. Organic mercury compounds like methylmercury can build up in fish and seafood, posing risks to humans who consume them. Inorganic mercury can also contaminate food sources.
All these substances are regulated by food safety authorities, with maximum permissible limits set for their presence in food.