News Flash Daily
22 February 
Authorities in Bengaluru announce sample testing after reports of artificial colours and harmful chemicals in watermelon, ice cream, and juices ahead of peak summer demand
Bengaluru: With the onset of summer, the Health Department in Bengaluru has raised serious concerns about the safety of commonly consumed seasonal items such as watermelon, ice cream, and fresh juices. Officials have indicated that artificial colours and harmful chemicals, including erythrosine and nitrates, may be used in some watermelon supplies, posing potential health risks to consumers. As a precautionary step, the department has announced that food sample testing will be conducted in March to verify safety standards.
According to health authorities, the move comes amid rising demand for cooling foods as temperatures begin to climb. Consumers have been advised to remain vigilant while purchasing and consuming summer food items, especially from roadside vendors or unverified sources.
Rising Demand Raises Red Flags
As summer sets in, watermelon sales have surged across city markets. However, alongside increased demand, suspicions have resurfaced regarding the use of artificial colouring agents to enhance the fruit’s appearance. Officials recalled similar concerns from the previous year, prompting renewed vigilance this season.
The department confirmed that, along with watermelon, samples of ice cream and packaged or roadside juices will also be collected for laboratory examination under food safety regulations.
Allegations of Artificial Colour Injection
Preliminary inputs suggest that certain traders may be resorting to unethical practices such as injecting erythrosine, a synthetic red dye, into watermelons to make them appear brighter and more appealing. Authorities have instructed the Food Safety Department to initiate early testing procedures in March.
Injected watermelons may reportedly contain nitrates, chromate, methanol yellow, Sudan red, calcium carbide, and oxytocin, substances that could adversely impact digestive health and vital organs if consumed in significant quantities.
Health Risks Linked to Chemical Exposure
Health experts warn that excessive exposure to such chemicals can pose serious health hazards. Nitrogen-based compounds used to accelerate fruit growth may become toxic when ingested. Artificial dyes
Calcium carbide, sometimes used in fruit ripening, is considered particularly harmful to the kidneys and liver, potentially leading to organ damage. Certain synthetic dyes have also been linked to increased cancer risk when consumed over prolonged periods.
Food expert Keerthi Hirisave highlighted consumer responsibility in food choices.
Consumers must remain cautious about what they consume during summer. Artificially enhanced fruits may look attractive but could pose hidden health risks,” she stated.
How Consumers Can Identify Artificial Colouring
Officials suggest a simple at-home test to check watermelon authenticity. By cutting the fruit and gently pressing the pulp against a tissue or cotton paper, consumers can observe whether the red colour transfers onto the paper. If staining occurs, it may indicate the presence of artificial colouring agents.
Additionally, experts advise being wary of watermelons that appear excessively bright red or unnaturally glossy, as natural fruits typically show slight variations of pink and white inside.
Department on Alert Before Peak Summer
The Health Department has reiterated that it remains on alert even before the peak summer season. The upcoming sample collection drive aims to ensure compliance with food safety standards and protect public health.
Authorities have encouraged residents to purchase food items from trusted vendors and report any suspicious products to local food safety officials.
As Bengaluru prepares for rising temperatures, the advisory serves as a reminder that food safety remains a shared responsibility between regulators and consumers.
