After testing revealed cancer-causing ingredients in twelve cake samples, the Karnataka government has issued a warning regarding the health risks associated with this popular dessert.
This advisory follows a prior ban in Karnataka on the use of artificial food colors, including Rhodamine-B, in items like cotton candy and gobi manchurian due to health concerns.
Test Findings
The Karnataka Food Safety and Quality Department announced that carcinogenic substances were detected in twelve cake samples taken from bakeries in Bengaluru. Of the 235 cake samples tested, 223 were deemed safe, while the twelve in question exhibited dangerously high levels of artificial coloring.
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Health Risks of Popular Cake Varieties
The department highlighted that popular cake varieties such as red velvet and black forest, which often use these bright colors, pose significant health risks.
Compliance Directives for Bakeries
As a result, the government has instructed bakeries to adhere to safety standards and refrain from using artificial colors, including Allura Red, Sunset Yellow FCF, Ponceau 4R, Tartrazine, and Carmoisine, among others.
Broader Implications of Artificial Colors
The use of artificial colors not only elevates cancer risks but may also adversely affect mental and physical health, as stated by the Karnataka Food Safety and Quality Department.
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