Environmental and Toxicological Implications of Dyes: A Mini Review

Year : 2026 | Volume : 16 | Issue : 02 | Page : 70 77
By

Sandeep Chand Upadhyay,

A. B. Bajpai,

Pradip Kumar,

  1. Researcher, Department of Botany, H.N.B.G. Garhwal University (A Central University), Srinagar, Uttarakhand, India
  2. Researcher, Department of Botany, D.B.S (PG) College, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
  3. Researcher, Department of Biotechnology, C.C.S. University, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

Synthetic dyes are extensively used in industries – such as textiles, leather, paper, and food processing – due to their vibrant colors and high chemical stability. However, the large-scale release of dye-containing wastewater has become a significant environmental and health concern. Owing to their complex chemical structures, most synthetic dyes are highly resistant to biodegradation, resulting in their long-term persistence in aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Their accumulation in water bodies reduces light penetration and dissolved oxygen levels, negatively impacting aquatic life and disturbing ecological balance. Furthermore, many synthetic dyes and their degradation by-products are associated with toxic, mutagenic, and carcinogenic effects, posing serious risks to both environmental and human health. Azo dyes, in particular, can undergo reductive cleavage to produce aromatic amines, several of which are recognized as hazardous to human health. This mini review summarizes the major classes and sources of synthetic dyes, discusses their environmental fate and toxicological implications, reviews the existing regulatory framework, and highlights the need for sustainable strategies to minimize dye contamination and its associated risks.

Keywords: Dyes, toxicity, environmental pollution, industrial wastewater, ecotoxicity

[This article belongs to Research and Reviews: A Journal of Toxicology ]

How to cite this article: Sandeep Chand Upadhyay, A. B. Bajpai, Pradip Kumar. Environmental and Toxicological Implications of Dyes: A Mini Review. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Toxicology. 2026; 16(02):70-77.
How to cite this URL: Sandeep Chand Upadhyay, A. B. Bajpai, Pradip Kumar. Environmental and Toxicological Implications of Dyes: A Mini Review. Research and Reviews: A Journal of Toxicology. 2026; 16(02):70-77. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/rrjot/article=2026/view=253667

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Regular Issue Subscription Review Article
Volume 16
Issue 02
Received 07/07/2026
Accepted 13/07/2026
Published 31/08/2026
Publication Time 55 Days

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