The Karnataka government has implemented a new regulation prohibiting the use of synthetic colors, specifically Sunset Yellow and Carmoisine, in vegetable, chicken, and fish kebabs due to health risks. This decision follows the earlier ban on artificial colors in color candy and Gobi Manchurian.
The use of artificial colors in kebabs has been linked to poor quality and adverse health effects, prompting the government to take stringent measures. Samples of kebabs sold across the state will be collected and analyzed in state laboratories. Recent analyses revealed that 8 out of 39 kebab samples were unsafe due to the presence of Sunset Yellow and Carmoisine.
Under Rule 16.0 of The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and The Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011, the use of any artificial colors in kebabs is strictly prohibited. Violators will face severe penalties, including a jail term of up to 7 years and a fine of up to ₹10 lakh.
The government emphasizes that artificial colors can seriously affect consumer health, and this regulation aims to ensure the safety and quality of food products sold across the state.