The bread you eat contains cancer-causing chemicals banned in several countries

A study conducted by a public interest research and advocacy organisation has come out with shocking results about the bread that you eat in your day to day life, which the results say, may contain certain cancer-causing chemicals.

For the study, bread samples were collected from Delhi, and the results have prompted the union health minister to seek a report on the issue. The bread manufacturers, however, have vehemently denied using harmful ingredients in their products.

A total of 38 commonly available brands of pre-packaged breads were tested, out of which 84% tested positive for potassium bromate and potassium iodate, says the Centre for Science and Environment (CSE).

Both these ingredients are banned in many countries, being listing as "hazardous" for public health; however, no such ban exists in India.

The All India Bread Manufacturer's Association (AIBMA) has, on the other hand, denied that they use potassium bromate on a wide level. "Majority of Indian bread manufacturers do not use potassium bromate. We are going to present our point of view soon," Treasurer Sudeep Ahuja said.

Ahuja, however, added that some companies use potassium bromate so that breads have an increased shelf life. He also added that the ingredient is widely used in the US, which suggests that it isn't too harmful.

The members of the association will have a formal meeting to discuss the further course of action.

McDonald's India, from where a bread sample was taken, called the claims baseless, adding that it doesn't use potassium bromate or potassium iodate in flour or other ingredients.


Health Minister JP Nadda has also reacted to the report. "We are seized of the matter. 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 report."

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