Key Update

The Andhra Pradesh Food Safety Department has stepped up checks on cotton candy sold at public events after finding continued use of banned colouring agents such as Rhodamine B. Vendors continue to sell cotton candy at busy locations in Vijayawada, including the recent Vijayawada Book Festival, despite the prohibition.

Earlier Enforcement Delays Slowed Action

After Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Puducherry banned cotton candy in early 2024, Andhra Pradesh considered similar action. However, difficulties in collecting samples delayed enforcement, as many vendors operated temporarily and moved frequently between locations. With cotton candy returning to public spaces, the department has resumed sample collection, starting in Guntur and Vijayawada. Authorities said they will enforce a ban only after laboratory tests confirm the presence of prohibited colours.

Industrial Dyes Pose Health Risks

Officials said cotton candy often contains Rhodamine B, an industrial dye used in textile, paper, and leather manufacturing to produce a bright pink colour. The use of another synthetic dye, Metanil Yellow, also remains prohibited in food products.

Permitted Colours Allowed Within Strict Limits

While the State bans certain dyes, officials clarified that not all synthetic food colours are illegal. Colours such as Tartrazine are allowed within prescribed limits—up to 100 parts per million (ppm) in sweets and bakery items and up to 5,000 ppm in cold drinks and paan masala. Authorities prohibit synthetic colours in hot foods such as curries. The Food Safety Department has urged parents to avoid buying cotton candy for children, citing unhygienic preparation practices and potential health risks.

Source: The Hindu