What are Sudan I, II, III and IV?
Sudan dyes are red colourants used to colour solvents, oils, waxes, petrol, shoe polish and floor polish. Sudan I, II, III and IV are organic chemicals derived from coal tar, which belong to the azo dye group discovered nearly 150 years ago. While these dyes are approved for the uses listed above, they are banned for use in foods and beverages. Where did these contaminated foods come from? It has been suggested in the press that chilli and curry powders contaminated with Sudan Red dyes may have originated in India or other countries that use these dyes to increase the bright red colour of the condiment powders. What health risks are associated with these dyes? Soon after their discovery in the second half of the 18th century, evidence was found that these colourants could cause cancer. Tests done with animals in 1949 showed that Sudan Red dyes damaged the livers of rodents. Researchers warn that the ingestion of Sudan dyes can also potentially cause cancer of the liver or leukaemia in
