Food safety officials suspended the FSSAI license of a KFC unit in Tamil Nadu's Thoothukudi over the alleged use of magnesium silicate-synthetic for purifying used oil. "During a surprise inspection at the KFC unit at the Velavan hypermarket, we found the use of magnesium silicate synthetic, a food additive, to purify used oils, which is not permissible as per FSSAI standards. Not only were the used oils not destroyed, but the additive was not mentioned in the ledgers,” said Dr. Mariappan, Food Safety Designated Officer.

"The officials confiscated 18 kg of magnesium silicate synthetic and 45 liters of used oil. They also seized 56 kg of chicken fried 12 hours ago. An oil sample purified by magnesium silicate synthetics and that of the chicken have been given for laboratory analysis."

Meanwhile, according to news reports, KFC released a statement, claiming “KFC India is committed to following the best practices and international standards while cooking. High-quality oil and chicken are sourced from reputed suppliers in the country, and all applicable safety and quality standards laid down by the FSSAI and other relevant authorities are followed stringently."

Magnesium silicate is known as "talc". In the pharmaceutical industry, it is used as an anticaking agent to improve powder flow in tablet compression. Talc is used cosmetically in talcum and baby powder as an adsorbent.

Beyond permissible levels, magnesium silicate can be dangerous for health in some circumstances:

Long-term use as an antacid

It can cause bladder and kidney stones

Inhalation

Inhaling high concentrations of magnesium oxide fumes can cause metal fume fever. Inhaling or consuming magnesium silicate from supplements or cosmetics can cause respiratory issues and lung illness.

Interactions with other drugs

Magnesium silicate can increase the risk of neuromuscular blockade when combined with Neomycin or Netilmicin and increase the risk of hypotension when combined with Nicardipine.

It can also reduce the absorption of Nelfinavir, which could decrease its effectiveness. Magnesium silicate can also mildly irritate your eyes, skin, and respiratory passages. According to experts, since it is the main component of talc, which is often used in cosmetics and personal care products, it can be contaminated with asbestos fibers, which can cause respiratory toxicity and cancer. Even cosmetic-grade talc that's free of asbestos can be toxic and carcinogenic.