Bread row: CSE welcomes decision to stop using potassium bromate, potassium iodate as additives

The CSE on Thursday welcomed the bread manufacturers' decision to stop the use of potassium bromate and potassium iodate as additives, saying this will reduce public health risk from cancer-causing chemicals.

"We have heard what the bread-making association has announced. We are happy that they have decided to stop using potassium bromate and potassium iodate within two-three days.

This will reduce public health risk from these chemicals," Deputy Director General, Centre for Science and Environment (CSE), Chandra Bhushan, said.

CSE researchers had pointed out that potassium bromate can possibly cause cancer and use of potassium iodate in bread- making can lead to excess intake of iodine which could affect thyroid functions.

It said the food safety regulator, Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), has already announced a ban on use of potassium bromate.

"We welcome FSSAI's move to ban potassium bromate. Now that the industry has decided not to use both these chemicals in public interest, we urge FSSAI to also ban use of potassium iodate in bread-making," said Bhushan.

All India Bread Manufacturers Association (AIBMA) on Thursday said its members will stop use of potassium bromate and potassium iodate as additives with immediate effect following controversy over findings by the CSE.

The Association, which represents over 90 organised bread manufacturers, has however, asked FSSAI to verify the finding of CSE's report.

The Union Health Ministry has also asked the FSSAI to take the matter "seriously" and directed it to probe the matter.