Asbestos

Asbestos refers to a group of fibrous magnesium-calcium silicate minerals once valued for heat resistance and used for thermal insulation, fireproofing, and in filtration aids. Several forms are established carcinogens: inhaled fibres cause asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, which is why use is now banned or severely restricted in most countries. In food contexts the concern is contamination rather than ingredient use. Stray asbestos fibres can contaminate substances such as drinking water carried in asbestos-cement pipes, and legacy asbestos insulation in old food plants poses a hazard during maintenance or renovation. Monitoring water supplies and systematically removing asbestos-containing materials remain part of responsible plant safety management.