Puducherry has banned the sale of cotton candy after it was found that a toxic substance was being used for its making. However, sellers who obtain a quality certificate from the food safety department can continue to sell cotton candy.
An order issued by Puducherry Lieutenant Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan on Friday stated that the food safety officials tested and found the presence of a harmful chemical called ‘Rhodamine-B’ in cotton candy that was being sold in the Union Territory. Following this, it has been ordered that the sale of cotton candy will be banned.
“Those who have not got the quality certificate can immediately approach the food safety department and get it. After that, they can start selling cotton candy. The faster they get the food safety certification, the faster they can start their business. Until then, the sale of cotton candy is banned,” the order read.
The order stated that strict action would be taken against the violators.
In a video appeal, Soundararajan said, “It has been found that a toxic substance named ‘Rhodamine B’ is being used in the cotton candies that are consumed by children and others in Puducherry. We have directed officials to inspect shops that are selling cotton candies, and they will be seized if the presence of this toxic substance is found in the cotton candies.”
“People should be aware that food items having colour additives must not be given to children,” she added.
Rhodamine B, often abbreviated as RhB, is a chemical compound that functions as a dye. It is a water-soluble fluorescent dye, and it is known for its bright pink colouration when used in various applications.
Rhodamine B is toxic to humans and can cause oxidative stress on cells and tissues if ingested. It is particularly hazardous when mixed with food, leading to liver damage, tumours, and cancer over time.