Scientists plan chemical-free jaggery

MYSORE: Jaggery units in Mandya and Mysore that produce chemical free-jaggery cakes, which were in great demand in the local markets, are hit by excessive usage of hazardous chemicals.Jaggery units, majority of them unauthorised, in both districts involved in crushing, filtration, preheating of juice, clarification and pouring of molten juice into moulds have been proved unhygienic, and known for excessive use of chemicals.These units are supposed to use food grade chemicals within the prescribed safety limits. Majority of the units use either industrial chemicals or a high dose of regular chemicals, exceeding the prescribed limits.Despite availability of vegetable substitutes, the farmers continue to use chemicals with an intention to get better colour and better price.With jaggery trade dominated by merchants, the health factor has been neglected. The lack of legal framework or laws like Prevention of Food Adulteration Act that has no control over the industry and some stringent laws that are never  implemented.