Arsenic detox clay
The UK blocked a shipment of edible ‘therapeutic clay’ from the US which contained 14.2 mg/kg - parts per million.
The product has now been withdrawn from the market.
In 2012 the UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) warned consumers, especially pregnant women, about the dangers of ingesting clay, clay-based ‘detox’ drinks and supplements. The warning was issued after high levels of lead and arsenic were found in products sold online, despite its previous warning on potential dangers to health.
Exposure to arsenic can be associated with an increased risk of lung, skin and bladder cancer.