Explained: Why consumption of mustard oil is banned in the US and Europe
Indian cuisine often features mustard oil for its pungent aroma and sharp flavor, enhancing many dishes. However, the US FDA warns that mustard oil contains high levels of erucic acid, a fatty acid harmful to health, potentially causing brain cell damage and memory impairment, and increasing body fat accumulation. Consequently, mustard oil consumption is banned in the USA, Canada, and Europe due to these health risks.
Indian cuisine is full of aroma and flavours. From spices to oils, traditional Indian kitchen celebrates all things healthy that have medicinal properties too. One such item that is used in most Indian homes is mustard oil. A cooking oil, known for its pungent aroma and sharp flavour. It is an Indian staple used in raw and cooked form to enhance the taste of many dishes.
According to the US Food And Drug Administration, the amount of erucic acid in mustard oil is quite high. It is a type of fatty acid and is detrimental to health purposes. It is not metabolised properly and harms the brain cells as well. Erucic acid is also associated with many mental disorders like memory impairment. It also leads to the increased accumulation of fat in the body. Keeping in mind these purposes, the USA, Canada, and Europe have banned the consumption of mustard oil.
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