Danger in drug's guise

cod liver oil -- the foul-tasting vitamin supplement -- has been found to contain traces of dangerous industrial chemicals. The Food Commission, an independent organisation in the uk , has said that although the levels are low, the oil may have adverse effects on young children.

A study conducted by the ministry of agriculture, has shown 'relatively high concentrations' of dioxins and pcb s (polychlorinated biphenyls) in fish liver oils. These are picked up by fish in polluted waters and stored in their liver. The pollutants can increase the risk of cancer, researchers say.

Officials at the uk 's Department of Health are now approaching fish oil industry to discuss ways of reducing the concentration of these pollutants in fish oil products.

Cod liver oil is a source of vitamin ' a ' and ' b '. Doctors recommend this oil to reduce the risk of heart disease. An estimated one in 10 British adults, most of them over 55, use this oil as they believe that it helps reduce symptoms of arthritis.