Tamil Nadu bans sale of marshmallows after lab tests confirm presence of cancer-causing dye

Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma Subramanian banned the production and sale of marshmallows (panju mittai) in the state after laboratory tests confirmed they contained cancer-causing chemicals. The Food Analysis Laboratory collected samples from several beaches and other areas in Chennai.

Tests have found the artificial coloring agent rhodamine-B in various samples of marshmallows and other colored candies, calling them unsafe and unsafe for consumption.

The minister noted that the sale of marshmallows was banned in the state due to the presence of Rhodamine B and was punishable under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

He said that under the above-mentioned bill, the use of rhodamine-B as a food additive while manufacturing, packaging, importing, selling food or serving food containing rhodamine-B at weddings and other public events will be punishable.

He also added that the Food Safety Commissioner has directed the staff to take strict action under the Act.

In addition, directives were issued to conduct “thorough inspections” and take “severe action” against violators. Before Tamil Nadu, the Union Territory of Puducherry banned the sale and production of marshmallows.

health problems

P. Satheesh Kumar, designated officer of the Ministry of Food Safety, said Rhodamine-B is a dye with industrial uses. “It is used for leather coloring and paper printing. It cannot be used as food coloring and has immediate and long-term health hazards.” hinduism As Kumar said.

Kumar also confirmed that consumption can cause stomach fullness, itching and breathing problems, adding that if consumed for a long time, the dye can stay for up to 60 days and if not excreted, it can be deposited in the kidneys, liver and body. Kumar said long-term consumption can disrupt kidney function and cause irreversible damage.