Health Alert: Pani Puri In Karnataka Found Unsafe, Raises Alarms

In a concerning revelation for food enthusiasts across Karnataka, alarming results have been uncovered regarding the popular street food, Pani Puri (also known as Gol Gappe and Puchkas), through recent tests conducted by food safety officials.

Of the 260 samples collected from various sources, including roadside stalls and restaurants, 22 per cent were found to fail safety standards, as reported by Times Now.

No More Pani Puri In Karnataka After Safety Test Fails

It was discovered by officials that 41 samples contained artificial colours and carcinogenic agents, substances known to pose serious health risks, including cancer. An additional 18 samples were deemed unfit for human consumption due to being stale or otherwise contaminated.

The issue was addressed by Srinivas K, the commissioner for food safety, who stated, "Many complaints about the quality of Pani Puri served across the state were received. Widespread issues were revealed through our inspections, spanning from roadside vendors to higher-end establishments."

Chemicals such as brilliant blue, sunset yellow, and tartrazine were identified in the samples, as known additives that can lead to various health problems, as reported by HT.

The Karnataka government had previously taken actions, including banning the use of Rhodamine-B in dishes like gobi manchurian and cotton candy, underscoring their commitment to food safety. Health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao emphasized, "Food safety is our top priority. Inspections will continue to identify harmful additives, and responsible parties will be held accountable," as per media reports.

This development follows a similar move by Tamil Nadu earlier this year, where cotton candy was banned due to the presence of Rhodamine-B and other harmful textile dyes. As concerns over food safety standards grow, consumers are urged by authorities to remain vigilant about the foods they consume, with a pledge for strict enforcement against violators to safeguard public health.