The Tamil Nadu government has enforced a prohibition on cotton candy sales following test findings showing the existence of carcinogenic substances. State Health Minister M Subramanian has additionally instructed food safety officers to undertake necessary steps and enforce stringent measures.
Presence of Rhodamine-B
In a press release issued on Saturday, February 17, 2024, the Minister announced that analysis conducted at the Government Food Analysis Laboratory revealed the presence of Rhodamine-B in colour soft candy/candy floss samples. This artificial coloring agent was deemed substandard and unsafe food under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006, he stated.
Mr. Subramanian declared it a punishable offense, stating that any engagement in the production, sale, distribution, or packaging of products containing Rhodamine B would face severe consequences.
Puducherry, the neighboring Union territory, has already enforced a prohibition on cotton candy.
The prohibition is expected to impact the livelihoods of numerous cotton candy vendors and manufacturers throughout the state.
P. Satheesh Kumar, designated officer of the Food Safety Department in Chennai, explained that Rhodamine-B has immediate effects, including stomach fullness, itching, and breathing difficulties upon consumption. He further warned that prolonged consumption of the dye can lead to its accumulation in the body for up to 60 days, with potential deposition in the kidneys, liver, and intestine. Long-term intake may result in kidney and liver function impairment, non-healing ulcers in the intestine, which can lead to cancer, and neurotoxicity.
