Statewide Food Safety Checks Begin

In a fresh effort to tackle the use of harmful colours and substandard ingredients in food, the Karnataka division of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has launched a special drive to inspect sweets and summer beverages like jalebi and sharbath. FSSAI officials across Karnataka have started collecting food samples to check for adulteration and quality. The agency plans to collect at least 250 samples from various districts. A senior FSSAI official noted, “Many restaurants add artificial colours to jalebi to boost their appearance. Testing these products has become essential.”

Sharbath and Imported Chocolates Under Watch

Sharbath, a popular summer drink, has also come under the scanner. According to officials, some vendors use banned preservatives, synthetic dyes, and chemicals to increase shelf life, raising serious health concerns. “These products are more likely to be adulterated or of low quality,” the official added. FSSAI teams will also collect samples of imported chocolates, particularly from urban areas where demand is high. The focus regions include Bengaluru, Mysuru, Belagavi, Hubballi, and Dharwad.

Previous Offenders and Health Hazards

This is not the first time FSSAI has acted against dangerous food practices. In earlier drives, officials found excessive use of cancer-causing artificial colours in items like Gobi Manchurian and cotton candy. The current inspections aim to ensure safer sweets, drinks, and chocolates for consumers across Karnataka.

Source: Deccan Herald