Survey reveals sub-standard chemicals in pan masala of 43 brands in Assam

Sept. 26: As per direction of the Gauhati High Court in response to a public interest litigation (PIL) number filed by Jitul Deka, General Secretary of Asomiya Yuva Mancha on 17 February 2020, the Food Safety Department, Government of Assam undertook a sample survey of pan masala in the state.

Acting on the direction of the HighCourt, the Food Safety Department tested samples of 43 brands of pan masala from across Assam. In the test results, certain samples were found to contain magnesium carbonate (MgCO3). The presence of magnesium carbonate in eatables may lead to cancer and other diseases in human beings.

There are three categories in which the food samples are rated – unsafe, sub-standard and misbranded. Pan masala belonging to 43 brands were found to be sub-standard, which means “The food does not meet the specified standards but not so as to render the article of food unsafe.” The Food safety Department has submitted the findings to the High Court which will decide the final fate of the 43 brands of pan masala.