Warning about consuming tajine, it can harden the arteries

MEXICO.— Tajín is undoubtedly one of the most consumed powdered condiments due to the different uses it can be given in Mexican cuisine.

Likewise, its tangy, yet spicy flavor adds a special touch to our fruits, vegetables, sweets (like gummies) and drinks (when you fill the glass with ice). But this condiment , made from dried chilies , dehydrated lemon juice, and sea salt, also contains an additive that could put your health at risk.

Damage to the lungs, impairment of cell regeneration and even heart problems are some of the warnings issued regarding frequent or in large quantities of tagine, which can cause acute toxicity.

It was the Mexican civil organization known as El Poder del Consumidor that conducted an analysis of this popular product and after the study found an ingredient that should not be taken lightly.

And while consuming high doses of sodium can be dangerous to your health , in combination with silicon dioxide , found in tagine, it can pose a major threat to people's well-being.

Hypertension and serious respiratory problems are some of the most serious conditions that result from ingesting these ingredients in excess.

However, El Poder del Consumidor also reported that several studies have shown that among the ingredients in tajín, silicon dioxide stands out, a compound used as an anticaking agent to prevent the powder from caking.

And it can be harmful to health if consumed for a long time and in large quantities, as this can “cause acute toxicity,” which can “ mainly affect the lungs and nervous system.”

The association also emphasized that although this substance is used in many other products and processed foods, it's the quantity consumed that matters.

It was also noted that inhaling silicon dioxide causes silicosis, a lung disease caused by the accumulation of particles that scar the alveoli.

Although it also causes the lungs and lymph nodes to swell , which in turn can lead to difficulty breathing and reduced blood oxygenation ; this could lead to death in someone.

El Poder del Consumidor also reported that excessive and constant consumption of silicon dioxide can cause "neuronal damage and alterations in mitochondria , which are key to energy production in cells."

Therefore, according to the EPC, tagine can still be included in your condiments, but its consumption should be moderate, especially for children and people with blood pressure problems.

Remember that a small portion of this product already covers almost half of the recommended daily sodium intake, and that silicon dioxide, although permitted, is not exempt from generating long-term health risks.

*With information from El Tiempo, Xataka and Excélsior .