Kochi: The supply from anganwadis in Ernakulam district has been suspended due to the presence of toxins in nectar powder. It is proposed to suspend the supply till the report is received after inspecting the packets which are currently being distributed and to recover the packets distributed in the packets included in the complained batch.
The decision was taken at a meeting of Kudumbasree, Food Security Department and ICDS officials chaired by ADM S Shahjahan. The Food Safety Department has directed the officials to inspect all the nectar production units and send the samples for testing. Kakkanad Regional Analytical Lab also directed the authorities to expedite the test results. Kudumbasree officials have also been asked to ensure the quality of the materials used by the nectar powder manufacturing units.
The action follows the detection of aphrodisiac B1, a toxin that can cause liver cancer, in the nectar powder produced in the unit at the Edakattuvayal unit, during an inspection by the Food Safety Department. The nectar powder of batch number 98 manufactured at the Edakkattuvayal unit was distributed in the anganwadis of the areas including the Kochi Corporation. It was suggested that it be withdrawn immediately.
Food Safety Department Asst. Commissioner NP Murali said. Kudumbasree Mission District Coordinator S Ranjini said that the Amritam powder production units have been shut down following the incident and production will continue only after ensuring quality.
English Summary: ‘Amrutham’ product to be banned temporarily