The Karnataka government on Monday prohibited the use of artificial colours in 'Gobi Manchurian' and 'Cotton Candy' in the state, citing presence of cancer causing chemicals. The state government has also said that its usage can cause adverse effects on public health, especially children.
Violation of the ban can lead to imprisonment and fine, said the food safety and quality department.
Samples of Gobi Manchurian and Cotton Candy sold across Karnataka were collected by the department and analysed in laboratories.
Based on the results, the Food Safety Commissioner ordered a ban on usage of any artificial colours in preparation of 'Gobi Manchurian'. While for 'Cotton Candy', the Commissioner prohibited the use of artificial colours, like 'Rhodamine B', over and above the prescribed limits.
Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said that banned chemicals are being used in many food products.
"We have done a survey across Karnataka and found that these chemicals (Rhodamine-B food colouring agent) are still being used so we are issuing another notice that nothing which is banned should be used and if used strict action will be taken," he added.
The order stated that "prolonged usage of artificial colours in food and its consumption can lead to deadly diseases like cancer". So, the public has been advised not to use any artificial colours in food or to use them in limited quantities.
According to an official, in case of any violation of the Food Safety and Standards Act – 2006 rule 59, the department can file a case in court which can lead to imprisonment from seven years to life term and fine up to ₹10 lakh.
In February this year, Tamil Nadu also banned the sale of cotton candy after finding Rhodamine B and textile dye in it.
What is Rhodamine B?
Rhodamine B is synthetic compound and a fluorescent dye. It is commonly used in microscopy, flow cytometry, dye lasers and fluorescence imaging. It is also used as a colouring agent in products like inks and cosmetics. It is pink to reddish-brown powder or crystals.
However, it is usually associated with health concerns and regulatory restrictions. Some reports suggest prolonged exposure to this chemical may make it carcinogenic for humans.
Comments
Who let out this Neanderthal out of his cave?
why all this happening in our peaceful Namma karnataka nadu... for all Swamiji/Guruji/all religious leaders we people of Namma kannada appeal we all go to ground one day or other, EARTH has no division at all...Request you all to help peace in the land of namma nadu karnataka.... Namma karnataka has always been Peaceful and great state and people and all our Gurujis have been excellent guide to people
Funny fight, indeed ! Afterall, Veerashaivas & Lingayats are like two sides of the same coin ! Either side, value or worth is the same !
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