Samples Collected to Test Presence of Banned Synthetic Chemical Auramine; Strict Action Warned Under Food Safety Act
Published on: December 15, 2025
By: BTNI
Location: Rajnandgaon, India
In a continued effort to ensure the availability of safe and quality food for consumers, a team from the Food Safety Department conducted a surprise inspection of food establishments operating in the industrial area of Rajnandgaon on Monday.
During the inspection, officials specifically examined split gram (futey chana) and other food products for the presence of the synthetic chemical auramine. The inspection team visited establishments including Prakashchand, Nemichand & Sons, Avadhram Namkeen, and Devangan Ji Namkeen. A total of eight food samples, including split gram and coloured peas, were collected for laboratory analysis.
All collected samples have been sent to a laboratory notified by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), New Delhi, for testing the presence of auramine.
The Designated Officer of the Food and Drug Administration stated that if auramine is detected in any of the samples, strict action will be taken against the concerned firms under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
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Explaining the health risks, the officer said auramine is a component of yellow industrial dye, commonly used for non-food purposes. Its use in food products is strictly prohibited. Due to its low cost, easy availability, and ability to impart a bright yellow colour, some food business operators in other states have been found using auramine instead of turmeric to enhance the appearance of food items such as split gram.
The presence of auramine renders food unsafe for consumption and can lead to serious health issues, including cancer, organ damage, genetic mutations, and disorders related to the nervous system.
The Food Safety Department reiterated that it is continuously taking action to protect public health and ensure the supply of quality food products. Food traders have been instructed to strictly adhere to safety and quality standards in the sale, storage, display, and manufacturing of food items.
Citizens have also been urged to report any information related to the sale, storage, display, or manufacturing of food items containing auramine or other substandard practices to the Food and Drug Administration office located at Gurudwara Chowk.
