Karnataka Food Safety Department Discovers Cancer-Causing Chemicals in Pani-Puri Samples: Report

Bengaluru: Food lovers in Karnataka have reason to be concerned after recent tests by the state’s food safety officials revealed troubling findings about the popular street food, Pani Puri, also known as Gol Gappe and Puchkas. Out of 260 samples collected from various places, including roadside stalls and restaurants, 22 percent did not meet safety standards.

Officials found that 41 of these samples contained artificial colors and cancer-causing chemicals, which pose serious health risks. Additionally, 18 samples were found to be stale or contaminated, making them unsafe to eat.

Srinivas K, the food safety commissioner, commented on the issue, saying, “We received numerous complaints about the quality of Pani Puri served throughout the state. Our inspections showed widespread problems from street vendors to upscale restaurants.”

The chemicals found in the samples, such as brilliant blue, sunset yellow, and tartrazine, are known to cause various health issues, according to a report by HT.

Previously, the Karnataka government had taken steps to ensure food safety by banning the use of Rhodamine-B in dishes like gobi manchurian and cotton candy. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao emphasized, “Food safety is our top priority. We will continue our inspections to find harmful additives and hold those responsible accountable.”

This news comes after Tamil Nadu took similar action earlier this year, banning cotton candy due to the presence of Rhodamine-B and other harmful textile dyes.

As concerns about food safety grow, authorities are urging consumers to be cautious about what they eat and are promising strict enforcement against those who violate safety standards to protect public health.