Beware consumers: Adulterated mustard oil flooding market

TEZPUR: After analyzing some of the mustard oil samples available in the market here, the Defence Research Laboratory, DRDO, Tezpur has confirmed that the tested mustard oil is adulterated with the seed oil of Argemone mexicana -- which though similar to mustard oil, is not only toxic and pungent but is also unsafe for human consumption.

The seeds of Argemone mexicana contain 22–36 per cent of pale yellow non-edible oil, called Argemone oil or Katkar oil, which contains the toxic alkaloids – sanguinarine and dihydrosanguinarine. The seeds resemble the seeds of Brassica nigra (mustard). As a result, mustard can easily be adulterated with argemone seeds, rendering it poisonous.

Several significant instances of Katkar poisoning were reported from across India in the past. The last major outbreak in India occurred in 1998.

In India, Argemone oil is mixed with sunflower oil and sesame oil to increase the quantity. But, this adulteration causes health disorders. Renowned brands display 'No Argemone oil' to qualify purity.

About 1 per cent adulteration of mustard oil by Argemone oil has been shown to cause clinical diseases.

The use of adulterated mustard oil is not recommended for consumption because it may result in serious health issues. The adulteration of Argemone causes epidemic dropsy, with symptoms including extreme swelling, particularly of the legs.

In the public interest, DRL Director has advised that while purchasing mustard oil from the market all consumers must be aware of the aforementioned danger. He also urged that the State Government department/agency to take appropriate measures to prevent any unpleasant incident due to consumption of adulterated mustard oil.

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