A recent investigation has raised concerns about food safety after several vegetable samples collected from markets in and around Bengaluru were found to contain dangerous levels of lead.
According to a report submitted to the National Green Tribunal (NGT) on February 12, 2026, 19 out of 72 vegetable samples tested contained lead levels exceeding the permissible limit.
Report submitted to NGT
The investigation was conducted by a committee of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) following directions from the NGT.
Vegetable samples were analysed in a laboratory recognised by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
The tests examined the presence of 11 heavy metals, three minerals and nearly 230 types of pesticides.
Among the vegetables tested, brinjal (eggplant) showed the highest level of lead contamination.
Vegetables with high lead levels
The report found that brinjal contained 1.953 mg/kg of lead, while the permissible limit is 0.1 mg/kg, meaning the concentration was nearly 20 times higher than the allowed level.
Other vegetables where excessive lead levels were detected include:
- Bottle gourd
- Beans
- Beetroot
- Cabbage
- Capsicum
- Chillies
- Cucumber
- Jute leaves (saluyot leaves)
- Knol-khol
- Squash
The findings have raised concerns about possible contamination of soil or irrigation water used in vegetable cultivation.
How lead enters vegetables
Health experts explain that plants can absorb heavy metals from contaminated soil or water through their roots.
Once absorbed, the metals become part of the plant tissue and cannot be removed simply by washing or peeling the vegetable.
Dr Vivek Jain, a senior doctor at Fortis Hospital in Delhi, said that lead contamination can occur when polluted water, industrial waste or contaminated soil enters the agricultural ecosystem.
Health risks linked to lead exposure
Lead is considered highly toxic and can have serious health consequences, especially for children.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), exposure to lead contributed to more than 1.5 million deaths globally in 2021, many linked to cardiovascular diseases.
Children are particularly vulnerable, as high lead levels can damage the nervous system, impair brain development and reduce cognitive ability.
Experts also warn that there is no completely safe level of lead exposure.
Pesticide contamination also detected
In addition to heavy metals, pesticide tests were conducted on 70 vegetable samples, of which 10 samples exceeded permissible pesticide limits.
This has added to concerns about food safety and agricultural practices in the region.
Experts advise caution
Doctors recommend washing vegetables thoroughly to remove surface contaminants, although this may not eliminate heavy metals absorbed internally.
They also advise maintaining a balanced diet rich in iron, calcium and vitamin C, which may help reduce the harmful effects of lead exposure.
Health experts emphasise that stronger monitoring of agricultural practices and regular testing of food products are essential to ensure consumer safety.
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