Dioxins - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What are the permissible limits for dioxin intake?

A: The World Health Organization recommends a maximum of 1-4 pg/kg body weight/day of TCDD. This recommendation is based on the effects of 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) on the reproductive, developmental and endocrine systems.

Q: Which industries release dioxin into the environment?

A: A number of industrial processes like smelting, bleaching of paper pulp and the manufacturing of some herbicides and pesticides are associated with the production of dioxins.

Q: How can dioxin contamination be controlled?

A: Dioxin contamination can be controlled by strict regulation of industrial and other processes producing dioxin. A regular check for dioxin in food supplies should be carried out especially at times of suspected dioxin exposure.

Q:  Is dioxin contamination more common in non-vegetarians?

A: Dioxin tends to accumulate in the food chain as one goes higher. Thus, people living on a vegan diet are exposed to low levels of dioxins, vegetarians to higher levels and non-vegetarians to even higher levels.