Full formScience
AZOstands forAzodicarbonamide
Full Form of AZO
What is AZO?
Azodicarbonamide (AZO) is a synthetic chemical compound primarily used as a blowing agent in the production of foamed plastics, such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and as a flour bleaching and dough conditioning agent in the baking industry. In India, AZO gained significant attention between 2011 and 2016 when several fast-food chains and packaged bread brands were found to use it as an additive to improve texture and appearance. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) banned the use of AZO in bread and other bakery products in 2016, citing potential health risks, including carcinogenic effects from its breakdown product, semicarbazide. The compound is still permitted for industrial applications such as shoe soles, yoga mats, and insulation. Students and professionals in food technology, chemistry, and regulatory affairs encounter AZO in discussions on food adulteration, food safety standards, and polymer chemistry. For competitive exams like FSSAI, UPSC, and CSIR NET, AZO is a notable example of banned food additives in India.
AZO का फुल फॉर्म
एज़ोडाइकार्बोनामाइड
Example
The FSSAI strictly prohibited the use of AZO in bread manufacturing after detecting its presence in popular Indian brands.
AZO — frequently asked questions
What is the full form of AZO?
The full form of AZO is Azodicarbonamide, a chemical used as a flour bleaching agent and plastic foaming agent.
Is AZO banned in India?
Yes, the FSSAI banned the use of Azodicarbonamide in bread and bakery products in India since 2016 due to health concerns.
Why is AZO used in plastics?
AZO is used as a blowing agent in plastics like EVA and PVC to create a foamed structure, making products like shoe soles and mats lightweight and flexible.