Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Bans Cotton Candy Due to Cancer-Causing Chemicals

The Tamil Nadu government has imposed a ban on the sale of cotton candy following the discovery of cancer-inducing chemicals in the sweet treat.

Health Minister, Mr. M Subramanian has directed food safety officers to take necessary actions and enforce strict measures after test reports revealed the presence of the compound Rhodamine-B in cotton candy and various confectionaries. Rhodamine-B, a textile dye known for its vibrant pink-to-red hue, is toxic to humans and has been linked to cancer. This decision follows a similar order issued by Lieutenant Governor, Mr. Tamilisai Soundararajan for Puducherry, urging inspections and seizures if the chemical is found in cotton candy products. Soundararajan also cautioned against giving “food items having colour additives” to children.