Source: HBL
Context: The European Commission has classified ethylene oxide as carcinogenic, mutagenic and toxic for reproduction (previously it was classified as a fumigant)
Significance: Agricultural products being exported to European Union will now be mandatorily tested.
Ethylene oxide:
At room temperature, ethylene oxide is a flammable colourless gas with a sweet odour. It is used primarily to produce other chemicals, including antifreeze. In smaller amounts, ethylene oxide is used as a pesticide and a sterilizing agent. The ability of ethylene oxide to damage DNA makes it an effective sterilizing agent but also accounts for its cancer-causing activity.
