Overview

The Thamarassery Judicial First Class Magistrate Court fined Shalimar Traders ₹1 lakh and sentenced its manager to imprisonment until the next hearing for selling jaggery mixed with unauthorised artificial colours, Sunset Yellow and Tartrazine. Judge T. Faiz delivered the verdict, while Assistant Public Prosecutor Jeffry George Joseph represented the prosecution.

Food Safety Officials Detect Illegal Colouring

In November 2018, Food Safety Officer Dr. Ranjith P. Gopi inspected the Ingappuzha-based establishment and discovered artificial colours added to jaggery. He sent samples to the Malaparamba Analytical Lab for testing, which confirmed the presence of harmful dyes known to pose health risks.

Regulations Ban Artificial Colours in Jaggery

Following the 2011 Food Safety and Standards Regulations, authorities strictly prohibit adding artificial colours, preservatives, or sweeteners to food products like jaggery. Food Safety Officer Dr. A.P. Anu represented the department during the court proceedings. The law prescribes imprisonment of up to six years and fines ranging from ₹1 lakh to ₹5 lakhs for such offences. With over 150 similar cases pending across district courts, the Food Safety Department urges food producers to adhere to additive regulations and warns jaggery sellers against marketing unlabeled or adulterated goods.

Source: Mathrubhumi