Daijiworld Media Network - Bengaluru (RJP)
Bengaluru, Jun 7: Even as row over Maggi continues to grab headlines, Karnataka health minister U T Khadar has warned that energy drinks, tonics and other substances used for gaining and losing weight, and protein tablets and powders will also come under the scanner soon.
The health minister's warning comes after the food safety regulator Food Safety and Standard Authority of India (FSSAI) banned Maggi Noodles. It also warned that it would test other brands as well to ensure food safety in the country.
Khadar added that any food product, including protein powders and tonics, is found containing substances beyond permissible limits, then strict action will be taken as per the law against manufacturers.
The minister, who held a meeting with nutritionists in Bengaluru, said the department will test energy drink 'Red Bull' and protein powder products. "Our next target will be energy drink and protein powder manufacturers. If they (products) are found to be adulterated, action will be taken against them," he added. Action will be also taken against those units which indulge in artificially ripening of mangoes, he said.
Though two of the labs to which Maggi samples were sent have said that lead content was within permissible limits, the state government has banned Maggi Noodles in Karnataka temporarily following FSSAI order. Nestle India, the manufacturers of Maggi Noodles has been told to withdraw its stock from stores with immediate effect. If the product is sold anywhere, the health department will book cases against the store keeper.
Khadar also said that once the test results arrive from CAFTR Kolkata, a final call on the Maggi matter will be taken.
The directive of the central food safety regulator has been sent to the Nestle manufacturing units in Karnataka, added Khadar.
Criticising CFTRI Mysuru for not accepting the Maggi samples for tests, Khadar said, "This is an emergency situation. CFTRI should have kept aside its rules and helped us take a stand." Seven to eight other noodle products, including Top Ramen, Knorr, Sunfeast, have also been sent for testing.
With DHNS inputs