Report

Karnataka’s Food Safety and Drugs Administration (FDA) detected Tartrazine, a banned dye, in 64 of 114 fried green peas samples. In a March 3 report to the Chief Minister’s Office, FDA Commissioner Srinivas K confirmed that 96 samples had been tested, with 32 found safe. The remaining samples are still under analysis.

Artificial Dyes Declared Unsafe

The health department banned Tartrazine, Sunset Yellow, and Carmoisine last year after detecting them in food products. Under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, foods containing these dyes are classified as unsafe. In February, FDA officers collected 70 samples from different locations across Karnataka, expanding efforts to enforce safety regulations.

FDA Investigates After Social Media Reports

The probe began after social media videos raised concerns over artificial coloring in fried green peas. Following instructions from the Chief Minister’s Office, the FDA launched inspections on February 14. Officials initially collected 70 samples, later adding 114 more, bringing the total to 184. So far, 95 samples have been tested—64 contained food dye Tartrazine, while 32 were deemed safe. Testing of the remaining samples is still in progress.

Source: Deccan Herald