Say No to Jaggery Made Using Hydros !!

Difference between chemical free kayak  jaggery and normal jaggery available in the market

Yellow or yellowish white jaggery in market attracts the attention of consumers due to color, which is due to bleaching reaction taking place while production of jaggery.A chemical called hydros powder used in the manufacturing of jaggery for its golden yellow appearance. This increases sulfur dioxide content of jaggery tremendously. Maximum permitted limit of sulfur dioxide in jaggery is 70 mg/ Kg but unlimited use of hydros powder, it increases by many folds which is harmful to health. Manufacturers add hydros powder to fulfill demands of consumers regarding the appearance of the product.

Detrimental effects of hydros powder.

• Excess SO₂ – injurious to health
• Throat irritation
• Unpleasant odour to the product and also, recipes made from it.
• Taste – salty, unpleasant
• Absorbs moisture during storage resulting in Jaggery flowing & fermentation.
• Increases sodium content of Jaggery.
• Favors dissolution of metals like tin & iron – corrosion of pan and roofing at Gurhal.
• Reacts with metals to form metal sulphides and spoil the flavour & taste
• Spoiling of containers used for storage.
• Medicinal properties mentioned in Ayurveda are lost.
• Vapors in Gurhal are injurious to the health of workers