Investigation of Congo Red Toxicity towards Different Living Organisms: A Review

The use of dyes is widespread across almost all industries. Consequently, these dyes are found in various sources of water and food that humans, animals, and plants consume directly or indirectly. Most of these dyes are comprised of complex aromatic structures that have proven harmful. Congo red dye, a complex aromatic azo dye based on benzidine, is most commonly used in these dyes; its metabolites (benzidine and analogs) can be toxic, but Congo red dye itself is not always harmful. The present review summarizes the toxicity of Congo red dye towards different living forms. Herein, the primary emphasis has been given to the mutagenic, teratogenic, and carcinogenic consequences of Congo red and its metabolites. The mechanisms of azo dyes' carcinogenicity have also been discussed. This review will undoubtedly be beneficial for researchers to understand the harmful effects of Congo red in genotoxic, teratogenic, mutagenic, and carcinogenic factors.

Automated summary

The use of dyes in various industries has led to their presence in water and food sources consumed by humans, animals, and plants. Many of these dyes, which are complex aromatic structures, have been found to be harmful. Congo red dye, a commonly used dye based on benzidine, may have toxic metabolites but is not always harmful itself. This review provides an overview of the toxicity of Congo red dye in different living organisms, focusing on its mutagenic, teratogenic, and carcinogenic effects, as well as discussing the mechanisms of azo dyes' carcinogenicity. It is a valuable resource for researchers studying the harmful effects of Congo red in terms of genotoxicity, teratogenicity, mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity factors.