Hepatitis Risk In Unpeeled Sugarcane Juice, Warn Doctors

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Sugarcane juice, considered a refreshing summer drink, may pose a serious health risk if extracted without peeling the cane, leading to potential Hepatitis A and E infections. Vendors in Bhopal are selling sugarcane juice without removing the outer layer, which could contain faecal contaminants.

Gastroenterologists have raised concerns, stating that the presence of faecal matter on unpeeled sugarcane can lead to spread of Hepatitis A and E. They urge juice vendors to peel the cane before extraction to minimise health risks. Past outbreaks highlight the dangers of contaminated water and beverages.

In November 1987, an epidemic of non-A, non-B (NANB) hepatitis broke out in a South Delhi residential colony due to sewage contamination in the drinking water supply. Similarly, in 1955-56, sewage mixing with pipe water in Nazafgarh (Delhi) led to a widespread hepatitis outbreak.

A similar incident in Bhopal in 1995, where tap water got contaminated at a hotel, resulted in multiple hepatitis cases, including among doctors. Dr. Subodh Varshney, a gastroenterologist, said, "Many vendors peel sugarcane before extracting juice, but some still use unpeeled cane, which can cause Hepatitis A and E.

Moreover, the ice used by vendors is often unhygienic. Strict monitoring is necessary to prevent health hazards." Dr. Ashish Saxena, deputy director of the National Health Mission, said, "The primary reason for peeling sugarcane is to remove faecal matter that sticks to the cane during harvesting. Juice extracted from raw, unpeeled sugarcane can spread infections. It is crucial to enforce hygiene standards among vendors to protect public health."