Deep Cleaning for Diwali? 5 Kitchen Items You Should Ditch ASAP for Better Health

Diwali, the festival of lights, is just around the corner, and everyone by now has started the annual exercise of Diwali ki safai to give a clean makeover to their houses. And while most people focus on cleaning

and decorating, many people overlook the silent health hazards hiding in the kitchen that can be dangerous in the long run. According to experts, there are a few common items that could be silently harming your health and need to be replaced with safer alternatives as soon as possible.

Toxic health items you must remove from your kitchen

Refined oils

Refined oils are the processed form of natural oils - obtained after treating natural oils with numerous chemicals to make them odour and flavour-free, along with giving them a longer shelf life. Refined oils undergo the process of hydrogenation, in which liquid unsaturated fat turns into a solid by adding hydrogen to it, resulting in excess production of trans fat. According to experts, these oils easily become rancid and lose many or all of their properties, becoming toxic. Regular consumption of refined oil can lead to cancer, diabetes, gastrointestinal diseases, obesity, and reproductive issues. You can swap them with plant-based oils like olive oil and use them in controlled quantities.

Packaged spices

Packaged, readymade spices are a health hazard due to risks of adulteration, heavy metal contamination, and improper processing. Experts believe regular consumption of these spices can lead to dangerous health issues, which include allergic reactions, liver damage, and potentially cancer, particularly from non-compliant ground spices. Make sure to always buy spices from trusted brands and always check for certifications from FSSAI and AGMARK. You can also buy whole spices and grind them at home to ensure taste and freshness.

Sugar

Regular consumption of refined or processed sugar is linked to various health issues, which include weight gain, an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, heart issues, and even inflammation, which can cause cancer. Sugar is addictive and can be difficult to quit, but according to experts, you must either replace it with fresh fruits or healthier and natural alternatives like Stevia.

Plastic jars and bottles

To store most grocery items like dals, atta, or even biscuits and cakes, many people use plastic jars – since they are found to be cheaper and durable. However, studies say these are mostly made with cheap plastic, which contains bisphenols or BPA, BPS, which are known endocrine disruptors and are linked to hormonal imbalances and reproductive issues. Plastic jars and bottles also contain phthalates, which are used to make plastics more flexible. However, these chemicals interfere with hormone function and have been associated with developmental disorders – especially in kids. You can swap plastic with either steel or glass, which are equally durable, look good, and are easy to clean and maintain.

Aluminium foils

Every house uses aluminium foil to pack lunch or breakfast. While it is generally considered safe for occasional use, aluminium foil poses health hazards with frequent, prolonged contact, especially when used with acidic, salty, or high-heat cooking. Experts say aluminum can leach into the food, and while the body processes small amounts, high and constant exposure can lead to a buildup that can be concerning. This is particularly a risk for those with reduced kidney function, as the kidneys are responsible for excreting aluminum from the body. You can swap it with paper rolls, which are equally effective when it comes to keeping the food fresh and healthy, without any dangerous effects on your health.