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Even very low lead blood levels of 10 µg/dL or less in children are associated with lower IQ and delayed female pubertal development (JW Psychiatry May 22 2003). Programs that have lowered lead levels in gasoline and house paint have helped to combat childhood lead toxicity. Recently, however, cases of elevated lead levels in children have surfaced, possibly related to Indian spices and compounds used for cultural and religious purposes, leading to the current study.
Researchers in the U.S. measured lead content in 86 imported food items and 71 cosmetic and cultural products bought at 15 randomly selected markets. Foods included black pepper, coriander, chili powder, and garlic powder. Cultural and cosmetic products included sindoor (used on…