Daily Current Affairs : 20-December-2023
Grass pea, scientifically known as Lathyrus sativus and commonly referred to as khesari dal, has a notorious history linked to a neurological disorder called lathyrism. This disorder manifests as lower limb paralysis and has been a cause for concern since the late 19th century.
Historical Ban and Persistence
In response to an outbreak of lathyrism in the late 19th century, India took a significant step by banning grass pea in 1961 under the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act. However, despite the ban, cultivation of this legume persisted. Farmers continued its cultivation, and researchers embarked on efforts to develop low-toxin varieties of grass pea.
Understanding Lathyrism
Lathyrism, also known as neurolathyrism, is a neurological disorder associated with the consumption of excessive grass pea. It stands as one of the oldest neurotoxic disorders known to humankind. The disorder is primarily caused by a toxin called BAPN, which inhibits the copper-containing enzyme lysyl oxidase.
Efforts Towards Reconsideration
In 2015, an expert committee carefully examined the situation surrounding grass pea and recommended lifting the ban. The committee underscored the potential of grass pea in contributing to food security, especially in the face of climate change. This recommendation highlighted the need to balance the risks associated with lathyrism against the benefits that grass pea cultivation could bring in challenging agricultural environments.
Important Points:
- Historical Ban and Persistence:
- Ban imposed in 1961 under the Prevention of Food Adulteration Act due to lathyrism outbreaks.
- Despite the ban, grass pea cultivation continued.
- Researchers developed low-toxin varieties to address health concerns.
- Understanding Lathyrism:
- Lathyrism, or neurolathyrism, is one of the oldest neurotoxic disorders known.
- Caused by the toxin BAPN, inhibiting the copper-containing enzyme lysyl oxidase.
- Efforts Towards Reconsideration:
- In 2015, an expert committee recommended lifting the ban on grass pea.
- Emphasis on the potential of grass pea for food security amid climate change.
- Balancing the risks of lathyrism against the benefits of grass pea cultivation.
Why In News
Grass pea, also known as khesari dal, has been historically infamous for causing lathyrism, a neurological disease leading to lower limb paralysis; however, it is still consumed in certain regions due to its resilience in challenging growing conditions.
MCQs about Grass Pea and Lathyrism
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What is lathyrism?
A. A neurological disorder causing upper limb paralysis
B. A skeletal disorder caused by excessive consumption of grass pea
C. A respiratory ailment linked to grass pea allergies
D. A cardiovascular disease associated with legume consumption
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When was grass pea banned in India, and under which act?
A. 1950, Food Safety and Standards Act
B. 1961, Prevention of Food Adulteration Act
C. 1975, Essential Commodities Act
D. 1985, Consumer Protection Act
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What is the primary toxin responsible for lathyrism?
A. BPA
B. BAPN
C. BHA
D. BHT
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In 2015, what did the expert committee recommend regarding the ban on grass pea?
A. Introducing stricter regulations on grass pea cultivation
B. Maintaining the ban due to ongoing health concerns
C. Lifting the ban, emphasizing grass pea’s potential for food security
D. Expanding the ban to include other legumes
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