Karnataka’s health minister, Dinesh Gundu Rao, has declared that food vendors using artificial colors in kebabs will face severe consequences.
Karnataka’s Prohibition on Artificial Coloring in Kebabs
On Monday, the Karnataka government officially banned the use of artificial coloring agents in the preparation of vegetarian, chicken, and fish kebabs. This decision, aimed at safeguarding public health, highlights the serious risks associated with these synthetic additives.
Announcing this new regulation on X (formerly known as Twitter), Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao emphasized that violators would face “serious action,” including potential imprisonment for up to seven years and fines reaching ₹10 lakhs.
“Artificial colors are harmful to the body and can cause adverse health effects,” Rao stated, underscoring the health risks posed by these additives.
Investigations and Findings by Karnataka’s Food Safety Department
The Karnataka Food Safety and Standards Department had received multiple complaints regarding the use of artificial colors in kebabs by eateries across the state. Following these reports, the department conducted laboratory tests on 39 kebab samples. The results were alarming: eight of these samples were found to be unsafe due to the presence of artificial colors.
Specifically, Sunset Yellow was detected in seven samples, while a combination of Sunset Yellow and Carmoisine was found in another sample.
Legal Framework and Enforcement
The use of artificial colors in kebab preparation is strictly prohibited under Rule 16 of the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011. This regulation aims to ensure the safety and quality of food products consumed by the public.
Previous Bans on Artificial Colors in Food
This recent prohibition follows an earlier ban implemented by the state government in March, which targeted the use of artificial colors in ‘Gobi Manchurian’ and ‘Cotton Candy.’ These foods, particularly popular among children, were found to have adverse health effects due to their synthetic additives.
Implications for Food Vendors and Consumers
This stringent measure by the Karnataka government signals a robust commitment to public health and food safety. Food vendors must now comply with the ban to avoid severe penalties, including hefty fines and imprisonment. This action also raises awareness among consumers about the potential dangers of artificial colors in their food.
By prioritizing natural ingredients and adhering to food safety regulations, both vendors and consumers can contribute to a healthier society. The government’s proactive stance serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety and the need for vigilance in food preparation practices.
Conclusion
The Karnataka government’s ban on artificial colors in chicken and fish kebabs represents a significant step toward ensuring public health and safety. By enforcing strict regulations and imposing severe penalties on violators, the state aims to eliminate the health risks associated with synthetic additives in food. This initiative underscores the importance of food safety and the collective responsibility of vendors and consumers to uphold these standards.
