Daily Current Affairs : 20-February-2024

In Tamil Nadu, the cherished treat referred to as cotton candy, or “panju mittai,” has confronted a severe ban. This decision has been made due to health worries linked to dangerous chemical substances determined in the sweet. Specifically, Rhodamine-B, a damaging substance, was detected in samples accrued from cotton candy stalls in Chennai.

What is Rhodamine-B?

Rhodamine-B is a chemical dye that isn’t always safe for intake. It is regularly utilized in textiles and other commercial procedures but should never be determined in food. Under the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006, Rhodamine-B is classed as substandard and unsafe for human fitness. This regulation is in vicinity to defend purchasers from harmful materials in food products.

Health Hazards of Rhodamine-B

The presence of Rhodamine-B in cotton candy poses both immediate and lengthy-time period fitness risks. Here are some of the critical health problems related to its consumption:

  • Stomach Problems: Consuming cotton candy with Rhodamine-B can lead to digestive issues, such as nausea and belly pain.
  • Breathing Difficulties: Inhaling debris of this chemical can result in breathing issues, making it difficult to respire effectively.
  • Organ Damage: Long-time period publicity to Rhodamine-B can damage essential organs, along with the liver and kidneys.
  • Increased Cancer Risk: Perhaps the most alarming hazard is the heightened threat of developing most cancers because of extended publicity to this poisonous substance.

Important Points:

  • Ban on Cotton Candy: Cotton candy (“panju mittai”) has been banned in Tamil Nadu due to health concerns.
  • Chemical Detected: Rhodamine-B, a harmful chemical dye, was found in samples from cotton candy stalls in Chennai.
  • Legal Classification: Rhodamine-B is classified as substandard and unsafe under the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006.
  • Health Risks:
    • Stomach Problems: Can cause nausea and stomach pain.
    • Breathing Difficulties: Inhalation can lead to respiratory issues.
    • Organ Damage: Long-term exposure may harm vital organs like the liver and kidneys.
    • Increased Cancer Risk: Prolonged exposure raises the risk of developing cancer.
  • Public Health Protection: The ban aims to safeguard consumers from dangerous substances in food.

Why In News

The sale of cotton candy (panju mittai) has been banned in Tamil Nadu due to the presence of cancer-causing chemicals, specifically Rhodamine-B, found in samples collected from stalls in Chennai, highlighting the urgent need for food safety regulations to protect public health.

MCQs about Cotton Candy Ban Due to Health Concerns

  1. What chemical was found in cotton candy that led to its ban in Tamil Nadu?
    A. Ascorbic Acid
    B. Rhodamine-B
    C. Sodium Chloride
    D. Citric Acid
    Correct Answer: B. Rhodamine-B
    Explanation: Rhodamine-B is a harmful chemical dye detected in cotton candy samples, prompting the ban in Tamil Nadu due to health concerns.
  2. Under which law is Rhodamine-B classified as unsafe for consumption?
    A. Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006
    B. Consumer Protection Act
    C. Health and Safety Regulations
    D. Environmental Protection Act
    Correct Answer: A. Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006
    Explanation: The Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006 classifies Rhodamine-B as substandard and unsafe for human health, leading to the ban on cotton candy.
  3. Which of the following is NOT a health risk associated with Rhodamine-B?
    A. Stomach Problems
    B. Improved Digestion
    C. Breathing Difficulties
    D. Increased Cancer Risk
    Correct Answer: B. Improved Digestion
    Explanation: Rhodamine-B is associated with health risks like stomach problems, breathing difficulties, and increased cancer risk, but it does not improve digestion.
  4. Why was the ban on cotton candy considered necessary?
    A. To promote tourism
    B. To support local vendors
    C. To protect public health
    D. To increase sales of alternative snacks
    Correct Answer: C. To protect public health
    Explanation: The primary reason for the ban on cotton candy was to safeguard public health from the dangers posed by harmful chemicals like Rhodamine-B.

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