A recent investigation by the Karnataka Food Safety and Quality Department revealed carcinogenic substances in 12 out of 235 cake samples tested, including well-known varieties like red velvet and black forest. Food Safety Commissioner Srinivas K called on bakeries throughout the state to exercise greater caution regarding their ingredient choices, specifically cautioning against the use of harmful chemicals and artificial colouring agents.
“Tests conducted on samples from various bakeries found excessive levels of artificial colours such as Allura Red, Sunset Yellow FCF, Ponceau 4R, Tartrazine, and Carmoisine in certain cake varieties,” Srinivas said.
He emphasized that these additives are tightly regulated under the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006 and the accompanying food safety regulations of 2011. This caution comes after the department had earlier banned artificial colours in foods like gobi manchurian, kebabs, and sauces for pani puri.
Reports indicate that cake samples collected from Bengaluru bakeries were tested, revealing the presence of potentially hazardous substances. In response, Food Safety Commissioner Srinivas K issued a warning to bakeries statewide, advising them to avoid using harmful chemicals and additives in their products.
The Karnataka Food Safety and Quality Department previously revealed that out of 235 cake samples tested, 12 contained artificial colours such as Allura Red, Sunset Yellow FCF, Ponceau 4R, Tartrazine, and Carmoisine. These additives were reportedly found in quantities exceeding the recommended safety limits.
"These chemicals, often used to enhance the visual appeal of cakes such as red velvet and black forest, have been linked to cancer and other serious health risks. Overuse of these additives could also have negative impacts on mental and physical health,” said an official of the Karnataka Food Safety and Quality Department.