Bengaluru, 24 June

After 'Gobi Manchurian' and 'Cotton Candy', the Karnataka government has now prohibited the use of artificial colouring agents in the preparation of kebabs (veg and non-veg) across the State, saying it adversely affected public health.

In case of violation of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 rule 59, it can file a case in the court which can lead to imprisonment ranging from seven years to life term and a fine up to Rs 10 lakh, an official order stated on Monday.

According to the Food Safety and Quality department, the quality of kebabs being sold across the state were found to be "poor" due to the addition of artificial colours, which can have serious impact on the health of the public. In the wake of media reports, samples of kebabs sold across the state were collected and tested in the state laboratories.

In an official order dated 21 June, the department stated that out of the 39 samples collected and tested in laboratories, eight were found to be unsafe due to usage of artificial colour (Sunset Yellow was found in seven samples while Sunset Yellow and Carmoisine was found in another sample).

Citing the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, it said the usage of artificial colours is unsafe and hence, no such colouring agents shall be used as it can seriously affect the health of the consumer.

The use of any artificial colours in the preparation of kebabs is not permitted under rule 16 of the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011, the order added.

In March, the State government prohibited usage of artificial colours in 'Gobi Manchurian' and 'Cotton Candy' in the State as their usage causes adverse effects on public health, especially children.

The decision was taken by the food safety and quality department after samples of 'Gobi Manchurian' and 'Cotton Candy' collected and analysed in laboratories showed the presence of unsafe artificial colours.