Cover image via MigrationologyThe Consumers Association of Penang (CAP) has urged the government to impose a ban on Ponceau 4R, a food dye known to cause cancer, allergic reactions, and asthma upon consumption
Ponceau 4R is a type of synthetic red dye, produced from petroleum products and is used to colour almost everything, from candies to spices.
**This dye is currently banned in U.S., Norway, and Canada for the dangers it can pose when consumed by humans.**
A research in Toxicological Sciences in 2001 showed that there was a connection between the colouring and tumours in animals. However, there were calls for more conclusive research to be carried out.
Besides that, Ponceau 4R has also been linked to hyperactivity as well as problems for those with asthma.
"Hawkers and food producers use dyes in food to deceive consumers into believing that good and nutritious ingredients are being used but in reality, the food has been coloured with harmful dyes," CAP President SM Mohamed Idris said.
He said that the dye is being used in a variety of hawker's food in Malaysia, such as mee rebus gravy, pasembur gravy, prawn fritters, and tandoori chicken that unsuspecting Malaysians consumer regularly.
He explained that the dye is used during the preparation of the dishes to provide a reddish tinge, to give the impression that the food is marinated with expensive spices like saffron.
