The Municipal Council of Mapusa, Goa, has banned the sale of Gobi Manchurian from street stalls. However, restaurants are still allowed to sell this popular snack.
The street food was found to be prepared under unhygienic conditions, using substandard sauces and synthetic food colors, many of which are not FDA-approved.
In addition to colorants, the snack was also found to contain Reetha powder (soap nut powder), a natural detergent that can have far-reaching impacts on one’s health.
The toxic adulterants can cause allergic reactions like hives, rashes and abdominal pain. They can also harm the liver and kidney, potentially being carcinogenic in the long run.
Experts suggest having Gobi Manchurian prepared with natural colorants like tomato gravy instead of synthetic ones. Using fresh oil and ingredients is vital as well.