The Karnataka Health Department banned sales of colored Gobi Manchurian and Cotton Candy statewide due to health risks associated with artificial coloring agents. This decision stemmed from concerns regarding the use of artificial coloring agents like Rhodamine-B, which are deemed harmful to health.
#Karnataka govt to ban use of artificial colours in Gobi Manchurian & cotton candy. According to the order issued by Food Safety & Standards Department’s Commissioner, violation of this ban may result in imprisonment for up to 7 yrs and a fine of up to 10 lakhs. pic.twitter.com/kdpoElnggA
— Ashwini M Sripad/ಅಶ್ವಿನಿ ಎಂ ಶ್ರೀಪಾದ್🇮🇳 (@AshwiniMS_TNIE) March 11, 2024
During a press conference, Health Minister Dinesh Gundurao emphasized the necessity of consuming food that is safe for health, addressing the growing apprehensions surrounding the presence of detrimental chemicals in various food products.
Gundurao underscored the dangers associated with unsafe food practices, highlighting the results of a recent investigation conducted by health department officials concerning Cotton Candy and Gobi Manchurian.
Officials collected approximately 171 samples of these food items from various eateries, revealing that around 107 unsafe artificial colors were detected in these dishes. Rhodamine-B, Tartrazine, and other similar chemicals were identified as being used in the preparation of such food items, posing potential health risks.
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Stringent action will be taken against any eatery found using such chemicals for food preparation. The food safety team will register a case if such chemicals are discovered in the food.
The Karnataka government has announced that eatery authorities found violating the order will face up to seven years in prison, and their license may be revoked if they fail to comply. However, the health minister clarified that natural alternatives, such as white cotton candy, are permitted for sale.
Last month, the sale of colored Gobi Manchurian faced criticism in Goa as well. Concerns about the use of synthetic colors and hygiene standards prompted the Mapusa Municipal Corporation to ban Gobi Manchurian from stalls and eateries within its jurisdiction.
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