Report

In March 2024, the Karnataka government imposed a ban on harmful artificial dyes in foods like manchurian, kebabs, and cotton candy to protect public health. However, a recent reality check reveals that brightly coloured food items are still widely available, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the ban.

FDA Findings Reveal Unsafe Food

In February 2024, the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FDA) in Karnataka tested 171 samples of gobi manchurian in state laboratories. Of these, 107 samples contained synthetic dyes like tartrazine, sunset yellow, and carmoisine, making them unsafe for consumption. Additionally, six out of 25 cotton candy samples tested positive for Rhodamine-B, a toxic industrial dye used in textiles that is known to be carcinogenic. Following these findings, the government extended the ban to include vegetable, chicken, and fish kebabs in June 2024 after several samples contained dangerous synthetic dyes.

Violations Persist in Bengaluru

Despite the ban, violations continue. Investigations revealed that artificial dyes remain common in street food stalls across Bengaluru’s major areas, including Majestic, Shivajinagar, Jayanagar, Koramangala, and VV Puram. Customers reported digestive issues and skin irritation after eating food suspected of containing synthetic dyes.

At a kebab shop in Bengaluru, Kamlakar, a staff member, openly admitted to using food colouring. He said, “Without colour, there is no taste,” explaining that the vibrant appearance attracts more customers. At a Chinese eatery, Ramesh, another worker, justified the practice, stating, “We add it very lightly so that it is not visible to people.”

Health Concerns Grow Among Consumers

As artificial dyes continue to be used, health concerns are rising. In Jayanagar, customers at local bakeries voiced concerns about artificial colouring in sweets. Ramani Gowda, a customer, said, “We prefer to make sweets at home because bakery products contain too much artificial colouring.”

Dr. Mallikarjun, Head of Gastroenterology at St. John’s Medical College Hospital, warned that consuming food with unapproved dyes can cause immediate health problems. “Gastroenteritis, vomiting, pain, and bloating are common effects of consuming such foods,” he said. He also cautioned about potential long-term risks, including pancreatic disorders.

Case Studies Highlight Health Issues

Koramangala resident Priya S experienced stomach pain and skin irritation after eating tandoori chicken from a popular restaurant, which doctors attributed to artificial food colouring. Similarly, Pranathi Gowda, a student at Christ University, suffered food poisoning after eating tandoori chicken from a street food stall. “I had continuous vomiting and felt extremely sick,” she recalled.

Roshan Sharma, a student, pointed out that artificial food colouring isn’t just limited to traditional foods like kebabs and cotton candy. “Now, even Korean fried chicken is loaded with artificial colour. After eating it, I suffered from stomach irritation, indigestion, and skin allergies,” he said.

Growing Calls for Action

As concerns mount, customers are demanding stricter action from the government. In VV Puram, many customers expressed worries about the excessive use of bright red colouring in gobi manchurian, and some are now avoiding the dish for their children due to health risks. “I don’t feed my children kebabs or even gobi Manchurian from outside stalls. I want to be careful,” said Praneeth Kumar, a concerned parent.

Health Minister Responds to Concerns

Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao acknowledged the challenges in enforcing the ban but stressed the need for sustained efforts to tackle the issue. “We must keep checking and monitoring constantly. However, people might not stop using these dyes just because of our checks; more consumer awareness and self-regulation are key,” he said. He also called for stronger legal measures for repeat offenders, including the possibility of seizing or banning products in extreme cases.

Conclusion: Ongoing Challenge

While the government has implemented a ban on harmful food dyes, enforcement remains a significant challenge. As artificial dyes continue to pose health risks, consumers and authorities must work together to ensure safer food practices across Bengaluru.

Source: Deccan Herald