The Dangers Of Consuming Food Contains Formalin

The existence of formalinized food in public is very disturbing. Foods such as meatballs, tofu, fish, and chicken meat, are subjected to be given formalin by some irresponsible persons, whereas the food is widely consumed by the public.

You need to know, formalin is colorless chemical, flammable, and smelling sharp. Usually, formalin is needed to make food more durable, sharper, and more eye-catching.

But, when you consume it, then the thing will happen is poison. Formalin will react with the human body and provide adverse effects. As explained in the pages of Dr. Health Benefits, here are some of the side effects of formaldehyde in the human body

1. Respiratory Disorders

Formalin or with the scientific name Formaldehyde is believed to damage the airways down and up when you inhale it in large quantities. Sore throat, burning sensations in the nose and throat, and nasal congestion are symptoms of upper airway irritation.

Airway irritation is most likely if the level of formaldehyde exceeds 1 ppm. Cough, phlegm, and shortness of breath are symptoms of upper airway irritation. Lower airway irritation is most likely to occur if the level of formaldehyde exceeds 5 ppm.

Individuals with existing asthma have a higher sensitivity when exposed to formaldehyde. In the case of formaldehyde levels exceeding 50 ppm, it can cause pneumonia, chronic bronchitis, or even death.

2. Visual Impairment

Eyes are relatively more sensitive to formaldehyde. Concentrations of this substance above 0.03 ppm to 0.5 ppm can cause burning, itching, excessive, and redness sensations.

In the case of the formaldehyde level exceeding 100 ppm or the eye of a person in direct contact with it, the result is a severe optical injury. Loss of vision is the worst effect.

3. Skin irritation

Skin that is directly touched with formaldehyde fluid can cause irritation, such as rashes and itching. Excessive exposure to formaldehyde is also reported to cause allergic contact dermatitis.

4. Intestinal Damage

In the case of formaldehyde being swallowed, it can cause severe damage in the abdomen. The symptoms are nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. In addition, it can develop damage to other organs including kidneys, liver, pancreas, and spleen. United States Department of Labor reported that the consumption of 30 ml of formalin fluids can cause death.

In the meantime, if you've been exposed to formaldehyde, what can be done is as follows:

In case of respiratory distress, if the victim is still able to walk, take them to the area with fresh air. Victims who cannot walk should be carefully removed and seek medical care as soon as possible.

In the case of eye disorders, irradiating them with ordinary water or saline for 20 minutes can help the victim from excessive eye irritation.

In case of skin irritation, clean the contaminated area thoroughly with plain water for 4 to 6 minutes. Use soap if available. Remove the victim's clothing as it may be contaminated with formaldehyde.

In the case of swallowing formaldehyde, a conscious survivor should be given 100 to 200 milliliters of milk.

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