Peas declared unsafe in Solan as lead levels rise alarm bells

SOLAN – Green peas sold in Solan city have been declared unsafe to consume after food safety tests found increased lead levels. The Food Safety Department (Urban) conducted routine sampling of vegetables and fruits in the area, during which one sample of green peas failed due to the presence of lead, raising immediate health concerns.

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The department had collected samples of green peas, capsicum, peaches and pears, which were sent to the ITC laboratory in Panchkula for quality testing. While all other samples passed the test, green peas were found to contain lead, which was not due to pesticides or chemical fertilizers but possibly due to contaminated irrigation water.

Presence of lead in irrigation water suspected
The lead content is believed to have come from water used for irrigation, as lead may have seeped into water sources from improperly discarded electronic devices in the area. The dissolved lead then reaches agricultural fields, causing crops to absorb this harmful element.

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Expressing concern over the discovery, Dr Atul Kayastha, Assistant Commissioner, Food Safety Department (MC Area), said the presence of lead in vegetables is a serious health hazard. “The presence of lead in peas is surprising and worrisome. We are taking necessary action as per rules to address the issue,” Dr Kayastha said. After the presence of lead in peas was detected, the Food Safety Department has planned to conduct regular sampling of vegetables and fruits to ensure the safety of people. The department is also investigating the source of the contaminated peas, which may have been supplied from districts like Punjab, Sirmaur, Mandi or even Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti. The incident comes after previous reports of failure in food and medicine quality in Solan, raising widespread concerns about the safety of everyday consumables in the district. Officials are now doubling down on efforts to ensure that such contamination does not reach consumers in the future.