ETHYLENE OXIDE

Source: Hindu

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Context

• The recall of Everest Fish Curry Masala from India by the Singapore Food Agency due to the alleged presence of a pesticide, ethylene oxide, has raised concerns about food safety and regulatory compliance.

Details

Ethylene Oxide Contamination

• Ethylene oxide is a pesticide not authorized for use in food.
• It is typically used to fumigate agricultural products to prevent microbial contamination.
• While ethylene oxide is allowed for sterilizing spices under Singapore's Food Regulations, its presence in food beyond permissible limits is concerning.

About

• Ethylene oxide (EO) is an important organic compound widely used in various industrial processes.

Chemical Structure and Properties:

• Chemical Formula: C2H4O
• Molecular Weight:05 g/mol
• Physical State: Ethylene oxide is a colorless gas at room temperature and pressure.
• Boiling Point:7°C
• Melting Point: -111.3°C
• Density:52 g/cm³ (at 0°C)

Production Methods:

• Ethylene oxide is primarily produced by the catalytic oxidation of ethylene. Two main methods are commonly used:

1. 1. Direct Oxidation: Ethylene and oxygen are reacted over a silver catalyst at high temperatures (around 250-300°C) and pressures (around 1-2 MPa).
   2. Chlorohydrin Process: Ethylene reacts with hypochlorous acid or its salts to form ethylene chlorohydrin, which is then treated with a base to produce ethylene oxide.

Uses:

Ethylene oxide finds extensive application in various industries due to its versatility:

• Sterilization: It is widely used for sterilizing medical equipment and supplies due to its ability to penetrate packaging and kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
• Chemical Intermediates: Ethylene oxide is a precursor to many other chemicals, including ethylene glycol, which is used in antifreeze and polyester production.
• Surfactants: It is used in the production of surfactants for detergents, cosmetics, and personal care products.
• Textiles: Ethylene oxide is used for treating textiles to impart wrinkle resistance and shrink resistance.
• Pesticides: It serves as a raw material for manufacturing certain pesticides.

Challenges:

• Flammability: Ethylene oxide is highly flammable and can form explosive mixtures with air.
• Toxicity: It is highly toxic and a known carcinogen. Prolonged exposure to ethylene oxide vapor can cause respiratory irritation, headaches, nausea, and, in severe cases, central nervous system depression and damage.
• Reactivity: Ethylene oxide is reactive with many materials, including metals, leading to corrosion and degradation.
• Handling: Proper ventilation, personal protective equipment (PPE), and engineering controls are necessary when handling ethylene oxide to minimize exposure risks.

Environmental Impact:

• Air Pollution: Emissions of ethylene oxide contribute to air pollution and can form smog.
• Water Pollution: Discharges of ethylene oxide into water bodies can harm aquatic life.
• Global Warming Potential: Ethylene oxide is a greenhouse gas with a high global warming potential.

Sources:

Hindu