Toxicological Assessment of Azo Dye Brown HT In Vivo

T M Tawabul Islam¹, Nirmal Chandra Mahat², Ivvala Anand Shaker³, Abul Kashem Tang², Sheikh Arafat Rahman², Mustakin Ahmed Shohel¹, Inampudi Sailaja^4*

This study demonstrated the adverse effects of azo dye Brown HT on juvenile health, underscoring the need for safer food practices to protect vulnerable populations.

Abstract

Background: Azo dyes, widely used in food, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and cosmetics, raise significant safety concerns due to their potential toxicological effects. Specifically, the biotransformation of azo dyes into aromatic amines, which may have carcinogenic potential, necessitates an investigation into their impact on health, especially for vulnerable populations like children. Methods: This study assessed the effects of Brown HT (E155) azo dye on juvenile rats. Male Long-Evans rats were divided into control and treatment groups, receiving varying doses of Brown HT over six weeks. Parameters measured included body weight, hematological and biochemical indices, and histopathological changes in liver and kidney tissues. Results: The results indicated a significant dose-dependent effect of Brown HT on body weight, blood parameters, and organ function. The high-dose group exhibited significant weight reduction, elevated liver enzymes, and abnormal lipid profiles. Histopathological examination revealed severe liver damage and renal impairment in high-dose groups, indicating potential long-term health risks associated with azo dye consumption. Conclusion: Brown HT azo dye demonstrates dose-dependent toxicity in juvenile rats, impacting physiological, biochemical, and histopathological parameters. These findings underscore the need for regulatory scrutiny regarding azo dye usage in food products, particularly for children, to mitigate associated health risks and promote safer food practices.

Keywords: Azo dyes, Brown HT, Juvenile Rats, Toxicology, Health Risks

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