Karnataka Bans Use of Rhodamine B

• 14 Mar 2024

Karnataka government recently imposed ban on harmful colouring agents in gobhi manchurian and cotton candy, citing health risks.

• Rhodamine B, a chemical dye used in non-food applications, found in tested samples.
• Rhodamine B may cause acute toxicity and is not fit for consumption.
• Only specific natural and synthetic colours are permitted by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
• Permitted colours include carotene, chlorophyll, riboflavin, caramel, Annatto, saffron, and certain synthetic dyes.
• Usage of permissible food colours regulated based on food type.
• Small-scale vendors may illegally add harmful dyes to food products due to lack of awareness.
• Larger cities typically use permitted food colours in cooked food products.
• Awareness about permitted food colours and their usage is crucial for food safety.