The Karnataka food safety authorities have launched a comprehensive campaign targeting vendors of popular street foods like gobi manchurian and pani puri. 



This statewide initiative aims to curb the use of synthetic colorants and potential carcinogens by food business operators (FBOs). Over the past five months, the department has gathered 4,000 food samples for analysis, prompted by reports of unsanitary practices leading to health issues among consumers. 


Karnataka's Food Safety and Standards Commissioner, Srinivas K, revealed that the department had received numerous reports of consumers experiencing nausea, loose stools, and other health issues after consuming certain foods. This led to a crackdown on the use of artificial coloring agents. Since March, the department has issued three directives prohibiting the use of such additives in items like gobi manchurian, cotton candy, and chicken kebabs.


The most recent prohibition came in early July after officials discovered potentially carcinogenic substances and harmful bacteria in pani puri and shawarma samples. Laboratory analysis of the collected samples revealed the presence of synthetic colorants such as Tartrazine, Sunset Yellow, Rhodamine B, and Brilliant Blue. According to food safety officials, these additives may contribute to cancer or lead to conditions like diabetes and renal failure. Notably, Rhodamine B, used for its red hue, is primarily a textile dye. Exposure to this substance can potentially harm the eyes and irritate the respiratory system.


To pursue legal action against an FBO selling unsafe products, the department follows a two-step sampling process. First, a survey sample is collected and tested. If found unsafe, four additional "legal samples" are obtained from the FBO and sent to the Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) for further analysis. If the CFTRI confirms the samples as unfit for consumption, charges are filed against the FBO under the Food Safety Act.


Cases are heard in the court of a Judicial Magistrate of First Class (JMFC). If found guilty, an FBO may face fines up to Rs 10 lakh and imprisonment for up to seven years. To date, 284 FBOs in Karnataka have been charged under the Food Safety Act for selling unsafe food items.