Six samples of sago found to be unsafe for consumption

Of the total nine samples drawn by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) officials from companies manufacturing sago in the district, laboratory test revealed that six samples were found to be adulterated and were ‘unsafe’ for consumption.

A team led by T. Anuradha, District Designated Officer, Tamil Nadu Food Safety and Drug Administration Department recently took samples from companies located in Salem city, Ayodhiyapattinam, Panamarathupatti, Gangavalli and Thammampatti.

Samples were sent to the Food Analysis Laboratory in Chennai that revealed that the sago which is half-white when natural, is mixed with chemicals to give more whiteness.

Notices

Hence notices were issued to the companies found manufacturing adulterated products.

She told The Hindu that manufacturers can go for appeal with Referral Laboratory within 30 days and the second sample would be sent for testing. If no appeal is made, with the consent of the Food Safety Commissioner, a case would be filed for manufacturing, distributing adulterated food and also for misbranding, they added.

FSSAI officials said that sago is mainly used for preparing pasta, bakery products and also to make value added products.