Chemical that harms the body while giving color to Panchumittai (a type of candy) has been identified, causing concerns. Following this, food safety officials in Chennai conducted an investigation into Panchumittai sold in the Marina Beach area. In the investigation, it was found that a dangerous chemical was being used.
Panchumittai is a food item easily available everywhere. From beaches to street shops, it can be found everywhere. However, there are concerns that a dangerous chemical is being used in this Panchumittai. Specifically, young people in coastal areas such as Puducherry and coastal districts of North Tamil Nadu are selling this Panchumittai. Food safety officials have initiated an investigation into the chemical substance used in this.
In the investigation, a chemical called ‘Rhodamine B’ was found to be used. This chemical, when ingested, can cause cancer. Panchumittai, which colors the eyes in rose or pink, uses these chemicals. However, due to its low cost, traders of Panchumittai continue to use dangerous chemicals like ‘Rhodamine B’.
Regarding this, some Panchumittai vendors have been reported and they have been arrested. Moreover, details have been collected about those involved in the sale of Panchumittai throughout Puducherry. Therefore, it has been recommended that a certificate from the Food Safety Department is essential for those who wish to sell Panchumittai. Some traders have confessed to buying ingredients from Tamil Nadu. Therefore, I believe that investigations like these will continue,” said Tamilisai Soundararajan, the Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry.
Furthermore, starting from the 8th of this month, samples of Panchumittai were collected from vendors selling Panchumittai in Marina Beach, Chennai, and sent for investigation. Additionally, food safety officials conducted an inspection at a factory producing Panchumittai in Pallavaram. Chemicals collected from there were also sent for analysis.
In this situation, authorities have reported finding dangerous chemicals in Panchumittai samples sent for investigation. Therefore, it is said that strict regulations will be imposed on the production of Panchumittai.”