Diwali is one of the most anticipated festivals in India. People also give gifts to their friends and relatives on Diwali. From kitchen items to jewelry, every kind of item is gifted as needed. However, before giving a gift, one must be careful that the gift you are giving does not promote cancer, as some gift items may contain cancer-causing chemicals or have a negative impact on health. If we are vigilant, we can protect the health of our loved ones while gifting.
Gift Items That Increase Cancer Risk…
Non-Stick Cookware or Plastic Utensils
Many people gift utensils and crockery. If you are gifting non-stick utensils, avoid this, as these black utensils are not safe for health. Non-stick cookware, especially those with a Teflon coating, can release a harmful chemical called PFOA at high temperatures, which can cause cancer. Use stainless steel or cast iron as an alternative.
Plastic Containers
Do not gift plastic utensils or containers. Microwaving plastic containers can release chemicals like BPA and phthalates into food, which can cause hormonal imbalances and cancer. It is better to use glass or steel containers.
Synthetic Colors and Plastic Decor Items
Plastic decorations, brightly colored plastic balls, pendants, etc., made using recycled plastic may contain brominated flame retardants (BFRs), lead, or cadmium. Gold plates on colored glazed ceramics or glass wires
Synthetic Colors and Plastic Decor Items
Plastic decorations, brightly colored plastic balls, pendants, etc., that use recycled plastic may contain brominated flame retardants (BFRs), lead, or cadmium. Cadmium may be used to create gold, red, or orange colors on colored glazed ceramics or glass wires. Over time, this color and glaze can break down, exposing the body to toxins.
Chemical Packaging Items
Plastic wrap, cardboard packaging, box covers, etc., may contain phosphorus, PVC, or other chemical coatings. These chemicals, such as phthalates and bisphenols, have been linked to breast cancer and other diseases. Sweets or food-related gifts that use non-food-grade packaging or metallic aluminum foil, or impure silver/varakh (silver plating).
Scented candles
Scented candles, which may contain synthetic perfumes or paraffin wax, can release harmful sulfur oxides and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when burned. These can contribute to air pollution and have adverse effects on the lungs.
Packaged and Processed Foods
Avoid gifting packaged food items high in sugar, trans fat, or other additives. Packaged and processed foods contain preservatives and additives, which can have carcinogenic effects over time. Eating fresh food and home-prepared meals is beneficial for health. Avoid lightly or poorly inspected sweets and packaged snacks containing preservatives, artificial colors, or bleaching agents. For example, in Uttar Pradesh, there have been reports of bleaching powder and non-food substances being added to sweets.
Choose safe gift options.
When purchasing decorations or home decor, choose natural materials such as wood, clay, cotton, jute, recycled paper, etc.
Choose Safe Gift Options
When purchasing decorative or home decor, choose natural materials such as wood, clay, cotton, jute, recycled paper, etc.
When purchasing glazed ceramics or glassware, ensure the glazing is food-grade and heavy-metal-free.
Packaging should be low in bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates. If gifting edible items, check the packaging label.
Scented candles should be made with natural wax and minimize synthetic fragrances.
Gift clothing or textiles should be dye-free/contain low-toxic dyes.
