Karnataka bans Rhodamine-B, harmful food colouring agent used in Gobi Manchurian and cotton candy
The Karnataka government has warned that any establishment found violating the order could face a seven-year prison sentence, and their license could be revoked
On Monday, the Health Department of Karnataka declared a prohibition on the sale of coloured Gobi Manchurian and Cotton Candy within the state. The decision was made due to the detrimental health effects of artificial colouring agents like Rhodamine-B.
During a media briefing, Dinesh Gundurao, the Health Minister of the state, highlighted the growing apprehension about harmful chemicals in various food products. He emphasized the necessity of consuming health-safe food.
Gundurao drew attention to the dangers associated with unsafe food practices, referencing a recent probe by health department officials into Cotton Candy and Gobi Manchurian. He reported that out of the 171 samples collected from different eateries, approximately 107 were found to contain unsafe artificial colours.
He stated, “Chemicals such as Rhodamine-B, Tartrazine, and others are used in the preparation of these food items, which is unsafe.”
Gundurao warned that strict measures would be enforced against any establishment found using such chemicals in food preparation. He added, “The food safety team will initiate legal proceedings if such chemicals are detected in the food.” The Karnataka government has warned that any establishment found violating the order could face a seven-year prison sentence, and their license could be revoked. However, Gundurao clarified that naturally coloured items, like white cotton candy, are still permitted for sale.
Last month, the sale of coloured Gobi Manchurian also faced criticism in Goa and Maharashtra. The Mapusa Municipal Corporation of Goa banned Gobi Manchurian from its stalls and eateries due to concerns over synthetic colour use and hygiene standards.
In 2022, during the Vasco Saptah Fair at Shree Damodar Temple, the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) directed the Mormugao Municipal Corporation to regulate the sale of the Manchurian dish due to hygiene concerns.
The Risks of Rhodamine B
Rhodamine B (RhB) is a chemical compound frequently used in synthetic dyes for colouring materials like silk, jute, leather, cotton, and wool. It is also used in the cosmetics and plastics industries. Its affordability makes it a common choice for food colouring.
Rhodamine B is often used as a food colourant, especially in products like chilli powder and chilli oil. Despite its common use, there have been increasing reports of potential health risks, including skin and eye irritation, respiratory problems, and potential carcinogenicity. The United States’ National Library of Medicine does not classify the agent regarding its carcinogenicity to humans.
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) stipulates that no colouring matter should be added to food unless permitted under the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulation, 2011. The approved synthetic colouring agents are:
• Red – Ponceau 4R, Carmoisine, Erythrosine
• Yellow – Tartrazine, Sunset Yellow FCF
• Blue – Indigo Carmine, Brilliant Blue FCF
• Green – Fast Green FCF
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