The Karnataka government took a decisive step to ensure food safety by banning the use of artificial colours in kebabs on Monday. This action follows previous bans on colouring agents in Gobi Manchurian and cotton candy. The decision was prompted by concerns over the unchecked use of harmful colouring agents in various food items.
Lab analysis reveals unsafe kebab samples
State laboratories conducted tests on 39 kebab samples, finding that eight were unsafe due to the presence of artificial colours like Sunset Yellow and Carmoisine. These findings were in violation of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. “Analysis reports indicate that eight kebab samples are unsafe due to the presence of artificial colours (seven samples with Sunset Yellow and one sample with Sunset Yellow and Carmoisine),” the order stated.
Government enforces ban under food safety regulations
In response to these findings, the government has prohibited the use of artificial colours in the preparation of all types of kebabs. The order cites Rule 30(2)(a) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, which empowers authorities to ban harmful additives. “As the use of any artificial colours is not permitted under Rule 16.0 of The Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011, the authority has exercised the powers conferred under Rule 30(2)(a) to ban the use of any artificial colours in the preparation of veg/chicken/fish and other kebabs,” the order read.
Strict penalties for violators
The government has warned that violators of this ban will face severe penalties, including imprisonment ranging from seven years to life and fines up to Rs 10 lakh. This enforcement will apply to all food vendors, from street sellers to five-star hotels. “In cases of violations, the producers will face legal proceedings under Rule 59 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006,” the order added.
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