Priyanka Tiwari
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A few weeks ago, panic spread across Maharashtra’s Buldhana district when people started experiencing sudden hair loss. The alarming situation raised concerns nationwide, with many fearing the onset of a new epidemic. Authorities rushed to investigate, initially suspecting contaminated water. However, the real cause turned out to be something completely unexpected—wheat.
Yes, you read that right! According to medical experts, the wheat supplied to local ration shops from Punjab and Haryana contained dangerously high levels of selenium, a mineral that, when consumed in excess, can cause severe health issues, including hair loss.
How Did Selenium End Up in Wheat?
Selenium is a naturally occurring mineral found in soil, water, and certain foods. While the human body requires small amounts for digestion and other functions, an overdose can be harmful.
The crisis affected around 300 people across multiple villages in Buldhana between December 2024 and January 2025. Many victims, including college students and young women, faced emotional distress as their sudden baldness led to social stigma, disrupted studies, and even delayed marriages. Some, out of frustration, shaved their heads entirely.
Shocking Test Results: 600 Times More Selenium
Dr. Himmatrao Bawaskar, a renowned medical expert and Padma Shri awardee, led the investigation. His team collected samples from the affected areas and found that those affected reported symptoms such as headaches, fever, scalp itching, tingling sensations, and in some cases, vomiting and diarrhea.
Upon testing, the wheat from ration shops was found to contain 600 times more selenium than the locally grown variety. The excess selenium led to acute alopecia (hair loss), with victims becoming completely bald within just three to four days of consuming the wheat.
Further medical tests showed a massive spike in selenium levels in the blood, urine, and hair of affected individuals—35 times, 60 times, and 150 times higher, respectively, than normal levels.
Recovery and Remedial Measures
Fortunately, there’s good news. Hair regrowth was observed within 5–6 weeks after people stopped consuming the selenium-rich wheat. Authorities have now taken measures to replace the affected wheat supply and ensure safer food distribution.
This shocking incident highlights the importance of strict food quality regulations and the potential dangers of excess minerals in our diet. While the situation is now under control, it serves as a crucial lesson in food safety and health monitoring.
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