On 28 November 2025, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) issued an order directing immediate enforcement action against the illegal use of Auramine, an industrial dye, in food products. The order specifically targets roasted Chana and similar items where Auramine has been reportedly used to improve colour.
Auramine is a synthetic dye not permitted under the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations, 2011. Its presence renders any food product unsafe under Section 3(1)(zz)(v) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
FSSAI has instructed Commissioners of Food Safety in all States and Union Territories, along with Central Licensing Authorities, to conduct inspections, sampling, and testing of vulnerable products. Actions must cover manufacturing, processing, storage, distribution, transportation, and sale across organized, unorganized, and e-commerce sectors. Defaulting Food Business Operators (FBOs) will face appropriate action.
A combined report of actions taken must be submitted within 15 days. FSSAI has also provided a list of four NABL-accredited laboratories for Auramine testing in cereal and cereal products.