The Health Minister of Karnataka, Dinesh Gundu Rao, has issued a firm warning to food vendors caught using artificial colours in kebabs, stressing that strict measures will be taken against offenders.
The State government has recently implemented a ban on the use of synthetic colouring agents in the preparation of vegetarian, chicken, and fish kebabs across Karnataka. This decision, announced via X (formerly Twitter) on Monday, aims to protect public health from potential hazards associated with these additives.
Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao highlighted the seriousness of the issue, emphasising that violators will face severe consequences, including up to seven years in prison and fines up to INR 10 lakh. Rao emphasised that artificial colours pose significant health risks, citing their potential to cause adverse effects on the human body.
The move comes in response to numerous complaints received by Karnataka's Food Safety and Standards Department regarding the improper use of artificial colours in kebabs served in eateries statewide. Laboratory tests conducted by the department confirmed these suspicions, revealing that eight out of 39 kebab samples were unsafe due to the presence of unauthorised artificial colouring agents.
Sunset Yellow was the most commonly detected additive, found in seven samples, while one sample contained both Sunset Yellow and Carmoisine. These findings prompted the state government to invoke Rule 16 of the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011, which strictly prohibits the use of artificial colours in kebabs.
This prohibition aligns with previous measures taken earlier in the year, when Karnataka authorities similarly banned artificial colours in Gobi Manchurian and Cotton Candy. These actions demonstrate a concerted effort to mitigate health risks associated with synthetic additives, particularly concerning their impact on vulnerable populations such as children.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in the article reflects the author(s) opinions and do not necessarily represent the views of the publisher and editor.