Officials of Salem Starch and Manufacturers’ Service Industrial Co-operative Society Limited (SAGOSERVE) and the Tamil Nadu Food Safety Drug Administration Department has warned sago manufacturers not to produce adulterated products.
During a meeting organised by Sagoserve here recently with sago manufacturers from seven districts, D. Raajendiran, Managing Director, Sagoserve, said that harmful chemicals are used to bleach sago to achieve pure white colour, which is banned as per Food Safety and Standards Act.
T. Anuradha, Salem District Designated Officer, said that maize starch and sago starch are mixed in equal quantities to produce adulterated product which is a violation. She said that while tapioca starch is sold at ₹ 55 per kg while maize starch is sold at ₹ 25 kg in the market. Hence, to earn more profit, adulteration and hazardous chemicals are used endangering the lives of the consumers.
She warned that strict action will be taken against adulterators, including cancelling the license of the unit, if the violations are found.
