I had filled the form for reporting error in answer key and explanation for Q15) of Test 32. However, it has not been incorporated in the corrigendum, neither has an clarification been provided.
My objection was for statement 4. of the question - i.e. Ethylene Glycol - It is commonly used in cough syrups to provide liquid base to non-water-soluble paracetamol.
The key held this as a correct statement. However, as per ForumIAS Quarterly January 2023-March 2023 - Pg no 33,
- Ethylene glycol is fatal if consumed
- common solvents such as glycerine (also known as glycerol) and propylene glycol are used in cough syrups to provide a liquid base to non-water-soluble paracetamol or acetaminophen.
Also as per - https://forumias.com/blog/uzbekistan-says-18-children-die-due-to-cough-syrup-made-by-an-indian-firm-blame-it-on-ethylene-glycol/-
- Why is Ethylene Glycol used in cough syrups? - ... in order to cut expenses and due to the solubility of compounds like diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol, manufacturers may sometimes substitute it for non-toxic solvents such as glycerine or propylene glycol potentially resulting in contamination
Ethylene glycol adulteration in cough syrup was reportedly the cause behind death of 18 children in Uzbekistan in December 2022. (https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/children-dead-due-to-cough-syrup-made-by-india-firm-says-uzbekistan/article66314181.ece)
Thus, the statement that - Ethylene Glycol is commonly used in cough syrups to provide liquid base to non-water-soluble paracetamol. - is incorrect.
And hence the answer key should be updated accordingly.
Can you please check this?
