Lunar New Year is a time when many merchants aim to increase their profits by using harmful chemicals, artificial colors, and unhygienic processing methods. Here is some information about the unsafe and unhygienic practices you should be aware of.
1 Coconut and gourd candies dyed with Tinopal
Coconut and gourd candies dyed with Tinopal
Tinopal is an industrial powder with a slightly yellow color that has an extremely strong bleaching effect. The Ministry of Health strictly prohibits its use in food products.
Consuming large amounts of food containing this substance can lead to stomach ulcers, liver and kidney damage.
Many manufacturers, driven by profit, have used Tinopal in coconut and gourd candies to make them more transparent and appealing while reducing production costs.
Additionally, coconut candies often contain excessive artificial colors to make them more colorful and attractive to customers.
2 Sunflower seeds dyed with fabric dye
Sunflower seeds dyed with fabric dye
Sunflower seeds are a popular snack during the Lunar New Year, and they are often dyed with chemicals like Rhodamine B, a fabric dye that is banned from use in food products.
Consuming food containing this substance can lead to liver and kidney damage and even cancer.
The dye makes the seeds appear brighter and shinier, and it does not fade easily.
3 Unsanitary grass jelly
Grass jelly is another popular treat, but recently, news outlets have exposed small-scale producers who make the jelly on dirty floors and use artificial colors and fragrances of unknown origin from China.
One of these substances is Aspartame, an artificial sweetener 30-70 times sweeter than sugar that is used by manufacturers to cut costs.
This substance is dangerous to health, and consuming food with high levels of Aspartame can increase the risk of cancer.
4 Unsanitary sour plums
Unsanitary sour plums
Recently, a small-scale producer was found to be drying sour plums on dirty concrete floors and old pieces of cloth stepped on by chickens and ducks. The plums themselves were spoiled and smelly.
Consuming these unsanitary products can lead to digestive problems and damage to the liver and kidneys.
5 Other types of cakes and candies
Other types of cakes and candies
Many unbranded cakes and candies of unknown origin are sold in markets at low prices, attracting many consumers.
These products are often made with low-quality ingredients and excessive chemicals to cut costs.
Consuming these products can pose serious health risks.
- Buy from reputable brands and large stores to ensure quality and safety.
- For products like coconut and gourd candies, avoid those with bright, unnatural colors as they likely contain artificial colors and chemicals.
- Choose products with intact packaging and a clear expiration date.
- Avoid products without clear origins or those sold in bulk.
We hope that this article has provided you with valuable information and tips for choosing safe and high-quality preserves for the Lunar New Year.
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