Delhi Bread Carcinogenic, Says Study; Health Ministry Orders Probe

According to the report, Pav, bun and white bread, contains one of the highest levels of these additives.

84 percent of bread and bakery samples collected from all over the city contains residues of potassium bromate, potassium iodate or both. (Photo: iStockphoto)

The Health ministry has ordered a probe after a report by the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) found that bread collected all over Delhi contain residue of carcinogenic (cancer-causing) chemical food additives.

Reacting to the report, Health Minister JP Nadda said, “I have told my officials to report to me on an urgent basis. There is no need to panic. Very soon we will come out with the (probe) report.”

The study proves that a 84 percent of bread and bakery samples collected from all over the city contains residues of potassium bromate, potassium iodate or both.

Global studies have shown that bromate is a possible carcinogen, which eventually led to it getting banned in several countries. Potassium iodate, banned in many countries, can potentially affect thyroid function.

But in India, the use of these as treatment agents continues.

Read the full report on The Quint.