Jaggery, a healthy alternative to sugar?

The widespread, unregulated use of chemicals while processing jaggery could pose several health hazards, particularly digestive problems, among consumers.

Most of these chemicals are classified as preservatives, which doctors advise against giving to young children.

Ironically, jaggery is recommended as an alternative to refined sugar, says paediatrician Dr Asha Beanakappa, as the former has various nutrients missing in sugar.

But she advises against using adulterated jaggery. “Any toxin which enters a child’s body can have an extremely deleterious effect. The increased acidity from this jaggery can worsen the digestion of children,” Dr Asha says.

“When we consume these chemicals, the foremost effect is that it damages the intestinal barrier. In children, this often shows up as abdominal pain,” says Dr Srikanth K P, a pediatric gastroenterologist.

While doctors say jaggery is the better alternative, their advice to consumers is to purchase it from a trusted source. Dr Asha advises parents to grate the jaggery, soak it, sieve it and then feed it to the children.

Doctors also say clear 'front of the packet' labelling, which mentions all the preservatives and chemicals used, would also go a long way in helping the consumers.