Garlic lowers blood pressure and cholesterol and helps cure the flu and cold.  Garlic contains vitamins C and B6, manganese and selenium, a type of antioxidant, which is believed to be responsible for its positive effects.  But there is also a type of garlic available in the market that contains toxic chemicals.
 
Poisonous garlic being sold in the markets

Chinese garlic, which was outlawed in 2014, is reportedly being sold illegally in India, according to media reports.  The prohibition was issued due to allegations of fungus-infected garlic being marketed in the country.  The smuggled garlic is estimated to have high quantities of chemicals.
 
China works to protect garlic from fungus

Chinese garlic is treated with a fungicide that contains methyl bromide to stop fungal growth for six months, a professor from Jadavpur university previously told TOI.  In addition, toxic chlorine is used to bleach it.  This kills insects in garlic, stops germination and makes the bulbs seem white and fresh.

What is methyl bromide fungicide?

Methyl bromide is a very toxic odorless, colorless gas that is used in agriculture and shipping to control fungi, weeds, insects, nematodes (or roundworms), and many other types of pests.  Its overuse poses serious health risks.  According to the USEPA, exposure to methyl bromide can cause failure of the central nervous system and respiratory system and damage to the lungs, eyes, and skin.  Not only this, there is also a risk of going into a coma.

Keep this in mind while buying garlic

Chinese garlic cloves are larger.  Blue and purple lines are visible on its peel.  If you buy such garlic, correct your mistake immediately.
 
 
 
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SIBY JEYYA

19/03/2025 08:35 AM