Karnataka bans Rhodamine B Used as food colour in Cotton Candy, Gobi Manchurian

Context

Recently  Karnataka banned harmful dyes in Gobi Manchurian cotton candy, imposing imprisonment of up to seven years and fines of up to Rs 10 lakh for violators.

Other Chemicals Banned in Karnataka

About Rhodamine B

• Artificial Coloring Agent: 

  • Rhodamine B (RhB) is a contaminant commonly used in dyeing. A recent investigation of numerous samples revealed the presence of Rhodamine-B, an industrial dye put to the candy as an artificial colouring ingredient.

• Common Usage: 

  • While its use is banned in some parts of the world, Rhodamine-B is also utilised as a colouring agent in food products such as chilli powder and chilli oil.

• Carcinogenic Properties: 

  • According to published research, this dye has carcinogenic qualities and may be the cause of inflammation and other disorders.

• Chemical Properties: 

  • Rhodamine B, a water-soluble fluorescent xanthene dye, has a unique chemical structure that includes a xanthene ring system and an attached amino group, making it highly soluble in water and suited for a wide range of applications.

• Source: 

  • It does not occur naturally and is synthesised. 
  • The synthesis involves the reaction of phthalic anhydride and aniline in the presence of certain catalysts.

Applications of Rhodamine B

• Textile Colouring: Rhodamine B is used in the textile industry to dye fabrics and materials, resulting in brilliant colours and long-lasting hues.
• Fluorescence Microscopy:In laboratories, Rhodamine B is a valuable tool in fluorescence microscopy and biological staining, allowing for precise visualization of cellular structures and molecular interactions.
• Industrial Applications: Because of its adaptability across numerous industrial processes, it is used in inks, ink formulations, cosmetics, and food colouring agents to give products vivid and appealing colours.

Effects of Rhodamine B on Humans

• Oxidative stress: Rhodamine-B intake, according to data given by the US government-run National Library of Medicine website, can cause “oxidative stress, injury, increase in cell apoptosis, and brainstem”.
• Harming Cerebellum Tissue: Regular consumption of Rhodamine B-containing foods can harm cerebellum tissue in the brain and brainstem, resulting in functional abnormalities and impairing motor function.
• Irritation in Stomach: The immediate intake of Rhodamine B-contaminated food might result in symptoms such as stomach fullness, itching, and breathing difficulties.

News Source: Indian Express