On Monday, the Karnataka Health Department issued a ban on Rhodamine-B, a food coloring agent utilized in cotton candy and ‘gobi manchurian’, amid growing concerns over additives in these food items.
This action comes as ‘gobi manchurian’ faces criticism for its preparation under unhygienic conditions.
Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said, “If anyone is found using Rhodamine-B food colouring agent, severe action will be taken against them under the Food Safety Act.” He announced a ban on coloured cotton candy, citing the illegal addition of artificial colors to achieve a pink hue. Violation of this order will result in the cancellation of licenses as per the law. However, there’s a slight reprieve for Gobi Manchurian enthusiasts. While the government hasn’t banned the dish outright, it has prohibited using artificial colors. Any establishment found guilty of adulteration will face hefty fines of up to 10 lakhs and imprisonment.
Following the discovery of Rhodamine-B, a textile dye, in cotton candy, leading to bans by Puducherry and Tamil Nadu governments on its production and sale, Karnataka has taken steps to ban the same.
The detection of Rhodamine-B, known to be carcinogenic. Recent tests conducted at a government laboratory in Tamil Nadu revealed the presence of Rhodamine-B in cotton candy, prompting concerns about its safety, especially among children who enjoy it as a popular treat.