The results of about 60 prepared food samples collected from nearly 65 hotels across the district were found to be unsafe and of sub standard quality. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) officials have initiated legal proceedings against them.
According to FSSAI officials, samples of prepared food were collected from a range of restuarants here. The food samples included curries, biryani, chicken starters and various gravies. They were checked for use of artificial colours like tartrazine (rose in colour), carmoisine (redish pink) and erythrosine (sunset yellow) which are permitted to be used only in occasional food items. According to officials, such colours are used to mask the original nature of the food and to increase its palatability.
R.Kathiravan, Designated Officer, Food Safety, said that of the results received, nearly 60 of them were found to be unsafe and of sub-standard quality. “These food items contained artificial colours which are potential Grade-II carcinogens”, he said.
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According to officials, samples from all class of restaurants where found to be unsafe and sub-standard due to use of artificial colours.
Dr. Kathiravan said that legal action would be taken against the offenders under section 59 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 in which they may face punishments upto six months and fine upto ₹ 1 lakh.
According to officials, the raids have started showing results. Dr. Kathiravan claimed that after the action, a few restaurant chains have stopped the use of artificial colours.
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Public could report complaints on food quality to the department’s WhatsApp no. 9444042322.