The Karnataka government implemented a ban on the use of food colouring agents discovered in Gobi Manchurian and Cotton Candy across the state on March 11. This action was prompted by growing apprehensions regarding the use of artificial colouring agents, notably Rhodamine-B, which was identified as having potential adverse effects on human health.


The prohibition of artificial colouring agents has resulted in a noticeable decline in the demand for Gobi Manchurian within the city. A report published by The Hans India highlights that businesses in Bengaluru have reported an 80 per cent reduction in demand since the enforcement of this decision.


Moreover, traders specialising in Gobi Manchurian mentioned that there was a lack of demand for uncoloured variants of food items among customers. Furthermore, they expressed that their earnings had experienced a substantial decrease over the course of the past few days.


"Uncoloured Gobi Manchurian are not accepted by consumers. Doing business and making a living has become a big challenge. Earlier, we were doing business of Rs 10,000 per day. Now, doing business for Rs 5,000 has become difficult. Even the invested capital has not returned. Currently, we are making natural Gobi without using any colour. Even so, people are not coming," Rajesh Y, a stall owner in the city, said, according to the report.


Rajesh acknowledged that the prohibition of artificial colouring agents was a significant setback for businessmen. He disclosed that he offered chemical-free Gobi Manchurian at his stall in response to the ban.


"I came to know that they are doing natural Gobi. Hence, it is recommended to take the Gobi. Here, Gobi is prepared without using any chemicals. Some customers said that they can eat with confidence. In general, the chemical ban on Gobi has given a big blow to the businessmen, so many businessmen have started saying that they don't want to do Gobi business," he added.


The state government clarified that the ban did not apply to natural varieties like white cotton candy.


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