No more cotton candy in Puducherry! Government bans sale but there is a catch

If you are visiting Puducherry, you may not get to enjoy cotton candy as the government has banned the sale of the sweet street candy. The move was taken after it was found that a toxic substance was being used for its making. However, there is a catch and some sellers will be able to sell it. Read on to know more!

Puducherry bans sale of cotton candy

According to a report by India Today, 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 ‘Rhodamine-B’ in cotton candy that was being sold in the beach town. Following this revelation, the government has announced that 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.

Puducherry Lieutenant Governor Tamilisai Soundararajan spoke about the incident and 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."

What is Rhodamine B, the harmful compound?

Rhodamine B, often abbreviated as RhB, is a chemical compound that functions as a dye in the textile industry. Rhodamine B is not approved for use as a food additive or coloring agent by food regulatory authorities. It is a water-soluble fluorescent dye, and it is known for its bright pink colouration when used in various applications.

Rhodamine B poses a risk to human health as it is toxic when ingested, causing oxidative stress on cells and tissues. When consumed, it can cause liver damage, tumors, and an increased risk of developing cancer.

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