Mutagenicity Testing of Children's Consumables

Abstract

Food and indigenous drugs generally consumed by children were tested for the presence of genetically active compounds. Genetic activity was determined by induction of mutations as evidenced by reversion to prototrophy in the bacterium Salmonella typhimurium. To ensure detection of these substances which are inert as such but are metabolized in the human body to potent mutagenic or carcinogenic forms, liver microsomal extracts were included in the standard assay mixture. Ten food colours and flavours, tested in the present studies, exhibited no mutagenic activity; however, some of the indigenous drugs seem to be genetically active. Cumulative effects of such local consumables and other factors may lead to initiation of carcinogesies. Evidence about the presence of mutagenic components in the environments in Faisalabad is convincing. Nevertheless, more extensive and detailed investigations are needed to make specific recommendations.