Several Indian states have launched a crackdown on the popular candy, cotton candy, amid worrisome fears of potential health risks.
The southern state of Tamil Nadu recently banned the sale of the sweet treat after rigorous laboratory tests confirmed the presence of Rhodamine-B, a notorious cancer-causing substance, in samples obtained from various vendors.
Nicknamed “buddi-ka-baal” because of its resemblance to an old woman’s hair, cotton candy has long been a favorite treat among children around the world. However, his innocent facade was shattered as medical staff raised serious concerns about his safety.
P. Satheesh Kumar, a vigilant food safety officer in Chennai, spearheaded a raid targeting cotton candy vendors along the busy beach. Subsequent findings underscored the alarming presence of Rhodamine-B, prompting swift government action.
The announcement of the ban by Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma Subramanian underlined the seriousness of the situation and highlighted the strict measures under the Food Safety and Standards Act 2006 to curb the use of rhodamine-B in any food-related form.
In line with Tamil Nadu’s proactive stance, neighboring states like Andhra Pradesh have also followed suit and started a thorough examination of cotton candy samples to detect the presence of the dangerous chemical compound.
This fervent crusade against the potential health risks of cotton candy has gained national attention, and even the capital city of Delhi is considering banning the once-beloved delicacy, as reported by the New India Express.
