Karnataka to Inspect Vegetables Sold in Markets and Online Over Chemical Spraying

The Karnataka Food Safety and Drug Administration Department will conduct safety checks on vegetables sold in markets, supermarkets, and through e-commerce platforms following complaints regarding the use of chemical sprays, Health Minister U.T. Khader announced on Wednesday.

Speaking to presspersons in Bengaluru, Mr. Khader said the department had received specific complaints about chemicals being applied to vegetables to artificially retain their freshness and make them appear more attractive to consumers.

The health minister noted that the food safety department has already been conducting regular inspection raids on eateries and storage facilities across the state.

Addressing the quality of produce available through modern retail and delivery channels, Mr. Khader stated that vegetables sold by e-commerce companies and supermarkets generally appear shiny. He affirmed that, from the perspective of safeguarding public health, produce sold through all such retail outlets will now be subjected to safety checks and testing.