Lead risk in sindoor and Kumkum

Very high levels of lead have been found in some formulations of powder products, sindoor and Kumkum.

Lead is a harmful substance, especially for children, as it can affect their developing brains and behaviour. If children have access to these powder products, they may accidentally put it in their mouths and be exposed to lead.

Sindoor and Kumkum are usually applied to the skin for traditional or religious purposes.

There are many different brands of sindoor and Kumkum available and not all contain lead, which is typically used as a colouring agent.