Report

In a major public health alert, the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FDA) in Karnataka found 95 out of 255 bottled water samples unsafe and 88 substandard during inspections held in February and March. These tests were part of a statewide drive, during which officials collected 296 bottled water samples. Authorities are still analyzing the remaining samples. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao announced the findings on Tuesday, stressing the department’s commitment to enforcing strict safety measures to protect public health. He highlighted serious lapses across the bottled water, food, and drug sectors.

Artificial Colors in Food Raise Red Flags

As part of February’s campaign, the department collected 115 samples of fried green peas to test for artificial coloring. Out of these, 69 samples failed safety standards, while only 46 were found safe.

FDA Cracks Down on Substandard Drugs

In March, the FDA expanded its drug safety efforts by collecting 1,891 drug samples from across the state. Laboratories in Bengaluru, Hubballi, and Ballari tested the samples and found that 1,298 met quality standards, while 41 were classified as Not of Standard Quality (NSQ). Officials also inspected 2,078 pharmacies and suspended 215 licenses for violations under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act and Rules.

Ringer Lactate Infusion Among Major Offenders

The FDA found a serious violation in Ringer’s lactate infusion, a commonly used IV fluid. Out of 196 batches tested, 113 failed to meet quality standards. The department has filed 78 cases against the manufacturer and plans to initiate 43 more cases against other drug manufacturers for similar NSQ violations. In total, officials filed 10 cases in February and 18 in March under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940.

Tracking Unsafe Drugs Through New Software

To prevent the circulation of NSQ drugs, the department is developing specialized software to track and recall unsafe drugs across the supply chain—from manufacturers and agents to wholesalers and retailers. The software aims to improve recall efficiency and ensure faster action. Minister Gundu Rao also reported that in February and March, the department seized substandard drugs worth ₹24.29 lakh from the market.

Source: The New Indian Express