Food safety is of prime importance, and the Karnataka government is prioritising people’s health. The Karnataka government has banned some harmful artificial colouring agents, which make food look attractive.
Why has Karnataka banned certain colouring agents?
Colouring agents in food pose a threat from simple stomach upset to serious health hazards like cancer, cardiac issues, autoimmune diseases, renal damage, etc. Hence, food safety is at risk. The Karnataka government has stepped forward to ban the usage of artificial colours. It has declared that it will take strict action against eateries and restaurants if found to do so.
Which food colouring is banned in Karnataka?
Sunset yellow, Brilliant Blue, Carmoisine, Rhodamine-B, Tartrazine, etc., are some of the hazardous artificial colouring agents in food that are banned in Karnataka. The Karnataka government has thus banned these additives owing to the presence of carcinogenic chemicals. They failed to meet the quality standards when tested in the state laboratories.
Which are the food items in which colouring agents are banned in Karnataka?
- Gobi Manchurian: Restaurants and roadside eateries use the harmful colouring agent Rhodamine-B in Gobi Manchurian. The Karnataka government has banned Rhodamine-B owing to its harmful effects on health.
- Cotton candy: Rhodamine-B is also used in the making of Cotton candy, which the Karnataka Government has banned.
- Kebabs: Sunset yellow and Carmoisine are used in the preparation of Kebabs, rendering them an attractive look. The Karnataka government has placed a ban on these as well.
- Pani Puri: When testing for quality, the Karnataka government also found harmful artificial colours and cancer-causing substances in samples of Pani Puri.
- Indian sweets: With the festive seasons approaching, the Karnataka government is also going to conduct quality tests on Indian sweets. Jalebis, Laddus, and Jhangiris will undergo tests to determine the prevalence of colouring agents. This is because of their bright colours.
- Chicken, fish, and other vegetarian dishes: The state government is also focusing on artificial colouring agents in various chicken, fish, and vegetarian dishes to ensure food safety.
Punishment for violation of rules
Violation of rules regarding the usage of artificial colouring agents in food can lead to seven years to life imprisonment, a fine of up to 10 lakhs, and the cancellation of eateries’ licences.
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