India, Dec. 11 -- In a step to safeguard public health, the CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (CSIR-NCL), Pune, on Monday announced the development of an innovative Chloral Hydrate Test Kit (CHT-KIT) for instant detection of chloral hydrate adulteration in toddy.

The laboratory has formally transferred the technology to the Authentic Chemicals and Research Centre (ACRC-TEM), Tembhurni, paving the way for commercial production and widespread distribution.

Toddy, a naturally fermented drink extracted from palm trees, is sold only through government-licensed outlets. While genuine toddy contains 5-6% ethyl alcohol and natural components, recent investigations have revealed widespread adulteration with chloral hydrate, a sedative chemical b...