Sun Feb 08 02:34:13 UTC 2026: ### Recurring Adulteration of Syrups in India Raises Serious Public Health Concerns

The Story:

A recent public notice issued by the Tamil Nadu Directorate of Drug Control has revealed the adulteration of a specific batch of Almond Kit syrup with ethylene glycol. This discovery follows closely on the heels of a tragic incident in Madhya Pradesh just five months prior, where over 20 children died due to contaminated cough syrups. The recurrence of such incidents highlights a systemic failure in India’s ability to protect its citizens from potentially fatal adulterated medicines, raising serious questions about the reliability of governmental institutions designed to safeguard public health. The article draws parallels to the 1937 Di-Ethylene Glycol (DEG) tragedy in the United States, which prompted the creation of a stronger FDA.

Key Points:

  • The Tamil Nadu Directorate of Drug Control found ethylene glycol in Almond Kit syrup during routine surveillance.
  • Just five months prior, over 20 children died in Madhya Pradesh due to contaminated cough syrups.
  • The adulterant, Di-Ethylene Glycol (DEG), is a cheaper alternative to safer pharmaceutical solvents like glycerine or propylene glycol.
  • DEG toxicity leads to acute kidney injury, organ damage, and potentially death.
  • Similar incidents involving DEG-contaminated medicines have occurred globally over the past century, including in the USA (1937), Spain (1985), Nigeria (1990, 2008), Bangladesh (1990-1992), Argentina (1992), Haiti (1996), Panama (2006), The Gambia (2022), Uzbekistan (2022) and Indonesia (2022).
  • India experienced a DEG-related tragedy in 1986 in Mumbai, where at least 21 patients died and more recently in 2022 and 2023 when Indian-manufactured cough syrups containing DEG were linked to child deaths in several countries abroad.
  • The article advocates for strengthening Indian regulatory institutions, drawing inspiration from the creation of the U.S. FDA after the 1937 DEG tragedy.

Key Takeaways:

  • The adulteration of pharmaceutical products with DEG in India represents a significant and recurring public health threat.
  • Economic incentives drive unscrupulous manufacturers to use cheaper, toxic alternatives like DEG.
  • Current regulatory oversight is insufficient to prevent the production and distribution of contaminated medicines.
  • Strengthening regulatory institutions is essential to ensure public safety and prevent future tragedies.
  • The article suggests India should take inspiration from the U.S. FDA creation in 1938 to strengthen institutions in India to protect the public health.

Impact Analysis:

The recurring incidents of DEG contamination and the subsequent loss of life have severe long-term implications:

  • Erosion of Public Trust: Repeated failures of the regulatory system undermine public confidence in the safety and efficacy of medicines.
  • Damage to India’s Pharmaceutical Industry: Such incidents tarnish the reputation of India’s pharmaceutical industry, potentially impacting exports and foreign investment.
  • Increased Scrutiny: Expect increased international scrutiny of Indian-manufactured pharmaceuticals.
  • Policy Reforms: The incidents will likely lead to calls for more stringent regulations, increased enforcement, and greater accountability within the pharmaceutical sector.
  • Healthcare Burden: The health complications arising from DEG poisoning add to the already strained healthcare system in India.

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