Karnataka Health Minister U T Khader Announces Checks On Tattoo Ink, Chocolates

Bengaluru: Following a recent crackdown on hotels, the Karnataka health department is preparing to inspect tattoo parlours, cosmetic products, and imported chocolates, Health Minister U T Khader announced. The minister stated that the state government will take strict action against unhygienic practices at tattoo studios, poor-quality cosmetics, and substandard confectionery being sold across Bengaluru.

Addressing safety concerns at tattoo studios, which have grown rapidly in popularity among youngsters across the city, Khader warned that failing to change needles or ink during procedures can cause severe diseases. He raised concerns regarding the safety of the chemicals used in tattoo inks and questioned whether studio operators regularly replace their ink bottles during procedures.

The announcement follows previous state health department tests conducted on tattoo materials. In February 2025, the health department tested eight tattoo ink samples collected from across Karnataka. The laboratory analysis revealed that many of the samples contained close to 22 metals, including hazardous substances such as Chromium, Selenium, Platinum, Arsenic, along with other residual solvents.

The quality drive will also extend to imported chocolates and items sold by international brands. Khader noted that international confectionery brands are held to stringent quality standards overseas but sell products with compromised quality in local markets. He affirmed that the government intends to ensure these companies maintain the same high quality standards for consumers in Karnataka as they do internationally.