Calls have intensified to review regulations on the import of chemically manufactured incense into Saudi markets, after recent research proved that its synthetic components emit harmful pollutants affecting the respiratory system and indoor air quality. Specialists have demanded that the Saudi Food and Drug Authority intervene with strict decisions, including temporarily halting imports and requiring suppliers to include manufacturing labels detailing the materials used in each incense stick and the chemical safety levels applied.

These moves follow the publication of an international study in the Journal of Inflammation Research, involving researchers from King Khalid University in collaboration with universities in India and South Korea. The study warned that burning artificial incense releases fine particles exceeding those produced by cigarettes by four times. The study revealed that artificial incense consists of a plant mixture combined with chemical fragrances and industrial glue, producing polluting gases upon combustion such as carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and volatile organic compounds.

The researchers confirmed that the ultrafine particles from burning artificial incense penetrate lung tissues causing chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and heart function disorders. Potential effects on fertility and the nervous system were also observed with continuous exposure indoors. The study showed that the ash of artificial incense contains heavy metals that pollute soil and water when disposed of improperly, making it a continuous source of environmental degradation within cities.

Experts believe consumer protection starts with tracking incense components on manufacturing labels and requiring full disclosure of material proportions and the producing entity. They also emphasized the need to develop laboratories to test the quality of incense and home fragrances to measure fine emissions and assess their compliance with health and environmental standards.

Monitoring artificial incense has become a national responsibility linked to air quality and human health, and reviewing import policies is a necessary step to protect society from silent pollution that sneaks in through pleasant scents.