Several months after discovering artificial colors and carcinogenic substances in tamarind sauces and chutneys served with panipuri, officials from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) in Karnataka are now examining another popular street food golgappa for potential contamination.
Nearly 150 samples have been collected from different districts in Karnataka, with about 80 percent sourced from Bengaluru city.
In a departure from their usual tests, which identify artificial coloring agents and harmful substances, FSSAI officials are now taking an additional step by performing microbial examinations. These tests aim to identify any harmful microorganisms, including bacteria, that could pose a risk to consumer health.
In response to numerous complaints from the public and media regarding food poisoning cases and unsanitary preparation practices, the FSSAI has initiated a statewide crackdown on golgappa vendors.
TOI also covered an incident where alert citizens caught a panipuri and golgappa vendor using spoiled potatoes, dirty coriander, and water sourced from a roadside borewell.
K. Srinivas, the food safety commissioner, informed TOI that a study conducted in June 2024 revealed that 22 percent of the panipuri samples tested were of substandard quality. “In June, we only collected samples of chutneys and sauces, but we did not test the fillings, which include potato, green peas, masala, and a vegetable mix of carrot, onion, and tomato.
Additionally, there have been claims that some vendors obtain water for their masala and sweet pani from public toilet taps and illegal roadside sources. Therefore, we have decided to carry out microbial testing,” he explained.
The standard tests consist of 6–7 procedures aimed at identifying adulterated colors and substances, whereas the microbial examinations encompass 16–17 processes designed to detect bacteria, viruses, and other harmful microorganisms.
Date: Saturday, 16th Nov 2024 Time: 10:00 AM – 05:00 PM
Join our WhatsApp group for regular updates on the food industry: Joining link