SRINAGAR: Drug Administration, Drugs & Food Control Organization, J&K today prohibited the use of synthetic food colours in prepared (ready-to- eat) Food Items available in markets. As per an official statement issued here, it was informed that the recent analytical reports of National Food Laboratory Ghaziabad has revealed that certain food samples of prepared food viz. Kabab, Biryani, Pickles and Chicken Tikka, have been found unsafe due to the  presence of synthetic food colours, like Carmoisine, Tartrazine, and Erythrosine.

ā€œIn terms of Regulation 3.1.2 and Appendix A of the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011, use of Synthetic food colours is prohibited in prepared food items such as Wazwan, Biryani, Pickles, and other meat-based preparations (ready-to-eat),ā€ read the official communication.

The presence of such prohibited synthetic colours poses a serious risk to public health. In terms of Section 59 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, such violations are punishable and may attract Imprisonment for a term which may extend to three months, and also with Fine which may extend up to ā‚¹3,00,000(three lakhs).

ā€œAll Food Business Operators (FBOs) engaged in the manufacture, preparation, processing, sale or service of ready-to-eat food items, especially meat-based products such as Kebabs, Wazwan, Biryani, Chicken Tikka, Pickles, etc, are advised to strictly avoid the use of synthetic food  colours in any prepared food items,ā€ warned the statement. Meanwhile D&FCO has sought cooperation of all stakeholders to ensure that only safe, wholesome food reaches the consumer.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). ā€œHis article, ā€˜When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.ā€.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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