Karnataka Govt Bans Sale Of Coloured Gobi Manchurian & Cotton Candy Citing Use Of ‘Harmful Chemicals

The Karnataka Health Department on Monday banned the sale of coloured Gobi Manchurian and Cotton Candy in the state, saying that the use of artificial colouring agents, such as Rhodamine-B, are harmful to health.

At a press conference, state Health Minister Dinesh Gundurao addressed the rising concerns over the presence of harmful chemicals in various food items and pressed on the importance of consuming food which is safe for health.

Gundurao pointed out the risks posed by unsafe food practices. He cited the findings of a recent investigation conducted by health department officials on Cotton Candy and Gobi Manchurian.

The officials collected nearly 171 samples of these food items from various eateries, he said. The findings revealed that around 107 unsafe artificial colours were found in these dishes.

“Rhodamine-B, Tartrazine and other such chemicals are being used for preparing such food items and it is unsafe,” Gundurao said.

Stringent action will be taken against any eatery that is found to be using such chemicals for food preparation, he said. “Food safety team will register a case if such chemicals are found in the food,” Gundurao said.