Karela Jamun contains ‘harmful’ chemicals

Srinagar, Jan 11: While the ‘negligent’ Food Analyst Kashmir and other officials of Drug and Food Organization continue to go scot-free in the food adulteration row, the worrying laboratory reports have found that ‘Karela and Jamun juice’ consumed by thousands in Kashmir contain too much of Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)—potentially harmful substances when consumed on daily basis.

The reports prepared by the Referral Food Laboratory Kolkata also show presence of total plate count and

yeast and mold count higher than the prescribed limits.

Therefore, the samples have been declared unsafe for human consumption by the lab.

Ironically, the Food Analyst Kashmir had given clean chit to the product terming it safe for human consumption.

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is an artificial taste enhancer considered as well-documented excitotoxin and neurotoxin by the neuroscientists because of its degenerative effects on the brain and nervous system Similarly, high yeast and mold count is Mycotoxin that can cause spoilage of the food and make it prone to high bacterial growth. It will be harmful for human consumption.

Official documents, in possession with Rising Kashmir, said that during routine inspection, samples of Karela and Jamun Juice, manufactured by Singh Food Haripur Hindua Derabassi Mohali, Punjab was lifted by Food Safety Officer.

It was sent to Public Analyst for analysis on August 27, 2013, who overlooked the harmful chemicals in the product and declared it misbranded only.

“The copy of the test report was sent to the Food Business under section 46 (4) of Food Safety and Standard Act (FSSA) 2006. The owner challenged the test and preferred to send second part to the referral lab Kolkata. The lab declared it unsafe for human consumption containing MSG, higher plate, yeast and mold counts on January 2, 2014,” they said.

The official reports have sought the prohibitory orders for imposing ban on sale/ distribution of the product. “Necessary sanction to prosecute the business unit under section (42) of FSSA 2006 may be granted.”