What are the hazards of fumigating steamed buns with sulfur?

Sulfur-fumigated steamed buns are an illegal food processing method that can cause various harms to human health. Common risks include damage to respiratory mucosa, impaired gastrointestinal function, disrupted liver metabolism, destruction of nutritional components, and potential carcinogenic risks. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Damage to respiratory mucosa: Harmful substances such as sulfur dioxide produced during fumigation may remain on the surface of the steamed buns. When consumed, they can irritate the mucous membranes of the throat, trachea, and other parts of the respiratory tract. Long-term intake may lead to discomforts such as sore throat, coughing, and chest tightness.

2. Impaired gastrointestinal function: Residual sulfur and its metabolites can enter the gastrointestinal tract and irritate the gastric mucosa, damaging the mucosal barrier. This may result in digestive symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Prolonged consumption may also trigger chronic gastritis, gastric ulcers, and other gastrointestinal diseases.

3. Disrupted liver metabolism: The liver is the body's primary detoxifying organ, responsible for metabolizing and breaking down harmful substances from residual sulfur. Long-term intake increases the metabolic burden on the liver, potentially damaging liver cells, impairing normal liver function, and in severe cases, leading to liver dysfunction.

4. Destruction of nutritional components: Sulfur fumigation destroys water-soluble nutrients in steamed buns, such as B vitamins and vitamin C, reducing their overall nutritional value. Long-term consumption of such nutritionally depleted buns may lead to deficiencies in essential nutrients, negatively affecting health.

5. Potential carcinogenic risk: Industrial-grade sulfur may contain toxic heavy metal impurities such as arsenic and lead, which are highly toxic and carcinogenic. Long-term consumption of buns contaminated with heavy metals can lead to accumulation of these substances in the body, increasing the risk of cancer.

When consuming steamed buns, attention should be paid to their source and quality. It is advisable to choose products from reputable manufacturers and avoid buns that appear unnaturally white or have a pungent odor. Enhancing awareness of food safety helps ensure safe and healthy consumption.