State govt announces ban on coloured cotton candy, use of artificial colors in gobi manchurian

Team Udayavani, Mar 11, 2024, 1:29 PM IST

The state government has banned coloured cotton candy and the use of artificial colours in Gobi Manchurian dishes.

Health Minister Dinesh Gundurao said that the government has banned Rhodamine-B, the food colouring agent used in cotton candy and ‘gobi manchurian’.

He emphasized the potential dangers associated with the colouring agents used in cotton candy, leading to the prohibition of coloured cotton candy across the state. However, he clarified that cotton candy made without artificial colouring is permissible.

Any vendors found selling coloured cotton candy will face legal consequences, Minister Gundurao warned.

Furthermore, while Gobi Manchurian remains a beloved vegetarian dish, the use of artificial colouring in its preparation is now strictly prohibited. Minister Gundurao disclosed that out of 171 Gobi Manchurian samples collected, artificial colours were detected in 107 samples. Substances such as tartrazine, sunset yellow, and crimson were identified in the banned samples.

The ban does not extend to Gobi Manchurian itself, but rather to the use of artificial colouring agents in its preparation. Minister Gundurao reiterated that legal action will be taken against any establishments found using artificial colours in Gobi Manchurian dishes.

These measures aim to safeguard public health by eliminating potentially harmful additives from popular food items, ensuring the well-being of consumers across the state.