Sweets are a universal favorite in India, especially during festivals like Diwali and Holi when demand surges. Traditional sweets such as rasgulla and gulab jamun are loved across ages, but there’s a growing appeal for brightly colored sweets in the market. However, concerns are rising over artificial colors used to make these sweets more attractive, with significant health risks emerging from synthetic dyes.
moth-watering Indian sweets. thedailymeal.com |
A study by the Indian Institute of Toxicology Research (IITR) in Lucknow found that about 16% of tested sweets contained illegal, potentially toxic colors, and many exceeded the safe color limits set by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Some dyes, like rhodamine B and metanil yellow, linked to cancer and neurotoxicity, are used in excess of legal limits to attract customers, posing a risk particularly to children. Experts like V. Sudershan Rao from the National Institute of Nutrition emphasize the need to reset dye caps based on individual toxicity rather than a general limit. FSSAI allows only eight permitted colors, yet unregulated dyes continue to enter the market, with little awareness among many small vendors.
Indian sweets. ndiansweetscyprus.com |
This issue isn’t limited to India. Globally, synthetic dyes in processed foods, candies, and beverages are linked to health issues. Research associates blue dye numbers 1 and 2, and red dye number 3 with cancer in animal tests, while others like yellow dye number 6 link to kidney and adrenal tumors. These dyes, although used to attract young consumers, carry significant risks, especially for children’s developing bodies.
A collaborative approach is essential to address these concerns. By promoting awareness among consumers and sweet makers about the risks, and by enforcing stricter regulations, FSSAI can help reduce the use of harmful dyes. Natural coloring alternatives are also an option for the industry, allowing consumers to enjoy sweets safely without compromising on quality or visual appeal.
https://www.navrangindia.in/2019/01/indian-sweets-and-dark-side-of-their.html
https://www.blogger.com/blog/post/preview/8274938273148772169/7398990095218686011
https://www.chemistryworld.com/news/toxic-industry-dyes-found-in-indian-sweets/6025.article
https://www.indiatoday.in/india/north/story/non-permitted-food-colours-neurological-disorders-nervous-system-disorders-156486-2013-03-19
https://www.foodmatters.com/article/the-dark-side-of-food-colors-plus-natural-coloring-alternatives