Presence of heavy metal like lead, cadmium and chromium have been found in the tobacco used for making local cigarettes. A test was done in this regard by the Safe Food Authority and sent to the ministry of family welfare and health for necessary action.

Earlier, the authority also found harmful ingredients in Hakimpur chewing tobacco and asked the manufacturing company to take it off the shelves.

In the Hakimpur chewing tobacco, 0.25 miligram lead, 0.95 miligram cadmium and 1.65 miligram chromium were found. Long time consumption of this can lead to liver and gum complications.

The agency also found lead in turmeric and issued a public warning dissuading the usage of lead in grounded turmeric.