Srinagar, August 1, 2025 : The Drugs & Food Control Organization (D&FCO), Jammu and Kashmir, has issued a ban on the use of synthetic food colours in prepared (ready-to-eat) food items being sold in the market, citing serious public health concerns.
According to an official statement issued on Thursday, the decision follows alarming findings from the National Food Laboratory, Ghaziabad, which detected synthetic colours like Carmoisine, Tartrazine, and Erythrosine in popular food items such as Kebabs, Biryani, Pickles, and Chicken Tikka.
“In accordance with Regulation 3.1.2 and Appendix A of the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011, the use of synthetic colours in prepared food items—including Wazwan, meat-based dishes, pickles, and biryani—is strictly prohibited,” the statement read.
The D&FCO warned that such violations are punishable under Section 59 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, which provides for imprisonment of up to three months and a fine of up to ₹3 lakh.
All Food Business Operators (FBOs) involved in the manufacturing, processing, sale, or service of ready-to-eat food—especially meat-based dishes—have been directed to immediately cease the use of synthetic colours in their products.
The department has urged cooperation from all stakeholders to ensure that only safe, wholesome food is made available to consumers.
