Kids’ deaths bring focus back on DEG, EG contamination

tleast nine children have died in a Madhya Pradesh district after allegedly consuming contaminated cough syrup.

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As authorities ban syrup brands and investigate the source of contamination, the tragedy has thrust two dangerous substances—diethylene glycol (DEG) and ethylene glycol (EG)—back into the spotlight.

Why do cough syrups cause deaths?

With nine children dead in Chhindwara allegedly from contaminated cough syrup, two industrial chemicals—diethylene glycol (DEG) and ethylene glycol (EG)—are once again at the centre of a public health crisis. This is not the first time these toxic substances have caused mass poisonings in India and globally.

What are DEG and EG?

Diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol are colourless, viscous liquids with a sweet taste. They are commonly used in industrial products such as antifreeze, brake fluids, paints, and stationery ink. Both substances are highly toxic to humans and have no legitimate use in medicines

How do they contaminate cough syrups?