Karnataka Government Alerts Bakeries Over Carcinogenic Cake Ingredients

The Karnataka government has issued a warning following the discovery of carcinogenic ingredients in some cake samples tested across the state. This follows an examination of 235 cake samples, in which 12 were found to contain harmful levels of artificial colors and chemicals, potentially linked to cancer and other health risks.

A senior government official, quoted by the Hindustan Times, stated, “We’ve detected harmful additives in some of the cake samples tested.” These additives are regulated under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, along with related 2011 regulations. Bakeries have been urged to comply with safety standards or face strict action.

Food Safety Commissioner Srinivas K has cautioned bakeries to avoid using unsafe chemicals. According to the Karnataka Food Safety and Quality Department, the concerning substances include artificial colors such as Allura Red, Sunset Yellow FCF, Ponceau 4R, Tartrazine, and Carmoisine, which were found to exceed the prescribed safety limits in the tested samples.

These chemicals, often utilized to enhance the visual appeal of cakes like red velvet and black forest, have been associated with serious health risks. They are believed to potentially cause cancer and adversely affect mental and physical health. Overuse could also lead to issues like hormonal disruption and immune system impairment, warned Dr. Manisha Arora, Director of Internal Medicine at CK Birla Hospital, during an interview with indianexpress.com.

The Karnataka government, following these findings, has reiterated its ban on artificial colors in foods such as gobi manchurian and certain sauces. Additionally, State Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao has issued warnings to bakeries whose samples contained the harmful coloring agents, informing them of the need for adherence to the established safety standards.

There is an emphasis on ensuring the public’s health and urging consumers to be cautious about where they purchase baked goods. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has signaled the importance of vigilance in protecting consumers by enforcing food safety regulations.