- By Imran Zafar
- Tue, 25 Jun 2024 10:08 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
The Karnataka Health Department issued a notification banning the use of artificial colours in the preparation of kebabs, including vegetarian, chicken, fish and other varieties. This move follows widespread media and public reports highlighting the poor quality of kebabs due to artificial colouring, which has been linked to adverse public health effects.
The department's decision is backed by Rule 59 of the Food Safety and Quality Act 2006, which stipulates severe penalties for violations. Offenders can face imprisonment ranging from 7 years to life, along with fines up to Rs 10 lakhs.
Recent tests conducted on 39 samples of kebabs from various parts of Karnataka revealed the presence of hazardous artificial colours, such as sunset yellow and carmoisine. These findings prompted the health department to take immediate action to protect public health.
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Meanwhile, Karnataka has already banned the use of Rhodamine-B in March. This harmful food colouring agent was found in popular dishes like 'Gobi Manchurian' and cotton candy. Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundurao emphasised that a special drive uncovered the widespread use of Rhodamine-B, along with other dangerous chemicals like tartrazine, carmoisine and sunset yellow in various food items.
Gundurao has promised stringent action against restaurants using these unsafe chemicals, reinforcing the government's commitment to ensuring food safety across the state.
