SFA Director raises public awareness on toxic turmeric adulteration, urges safe buying practices

ISLAMABAD, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 14th May, 2026) Stressing greater public awareness, Sindh Food Authority (SFA) Director Technical Dr. Ahmed Ali Shaikh on Thursday urged consumers to remain vigilant against lead (seesa) contamination, saying exposure through adulterated whole turmeric poses serious health risks, including kidney damage, anemia and impaired cognitive development in millions of children.

While speaking to a local media outlet, SFA Director Technical Dr. Ahmed Ali Shaikh warned that lead-contaminated turmeric continues to pose a serious public health threat, urging consumers to remain cautious while purchasing spices commonly used in daily cooking.

He advised the public to prefer branded turmeric products or naturally shaped turmeric roots resembling ginger, explaining that adulterated turmeric often appears unnaturally bright due to the addition of harmful chemicals containing lead (seesa).

Dr. Shaikh said prolonged exposure to lead has been linked to cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, anemia and impaired cognitive development in children, adding that repeated intake through contaminated food can gradually affect overall health.

Emphasizing the need for greater public awareness, he urged consumers to make informed choices and carefully examine food products before buying, saying awareness and precaution are essential to reducing exposure to toxic adulterants.

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Responding to a query, Dr. Ahmed Ali Shaikh said some adulterants and shopkeepers are putting public health at risk by adding harmful substances to increase the volume and appearance of turmeric for commercial gain, while endangering the health of consumers, particularly children.

He said the Sindh Food Authority is taking strict action against those involved in food adulteration through inspections, sampling, and legal proceedings, adding that no compromise will be made on public health and safety.

He also highlighted the difference between real and fake turmeric, saying that natural turmeric is usually dull in color and often appears in a ginger-like shape, while adulterated turmeric tends to be unnaturally bright and visually appealing due to the addition of harmful substances.

He concluded by urging consumers to remain vigilant and prioritize safe food choices, stressing that awareness and careful selection of spices can significantly reduce the risk of lead exposure and protect public health, especially among children.