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Lead Scientist of the Department of Food Science and Nutrition at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Dr Gloria Mathanda Ankar-Brewoo has revealed that naphthalene balls, otherwise known as camphor, cause cataracts.
Naphthalene balls are noted as a great anti-bacterial agent usually placed in water with a mindset of purifying or preserving the water for a longer period of time.
But do you know it’s usage?
Camphor is used in our homes to ward off insects and keep homes fresh.
Do you also know that at certain levels of exposure, it can cause diseases such as cataracts?
A study carried out by KNUST scientists has revealed that consumers of street vended fufu and fried rice may be suffering from ailments caused by the presence of camphor in their foods. The research found dangerous levels of camphor in these foods.
The Lead Scientist, Dr. Gloria Mathanda Ankar-Brewoo of the Department of Food Science and Nutrition, KNUST says “naphthalene balls affects our eyes, it also makes us get cataracts and as well causes blindness.”
According to her, “naphthalene is also one of the highest poly aromatise that we find in street vended foods. Although it’s hydrophobic and doesn’t dissolve easily. It has a lower read of resolution which slowly dissolve after some time.”
She recommends a review of policies that govern the use of naphthalene balls in food preparation processes and will also be very helpful if naphthalene balls is taken out of water and used as pest repellent instead.
Source: myJoy
