Maggi tests in Karnataka show lead within permissible limits

The initial tests on the Maggi noodles' samples sent by the Karnataka government showed presence of lead content within the permissible limits, a food safety and standards official said here on Saturday.

The samples were sent to two laboratories.

"We received the reports. Lead, which is the main concern, is within the permissible limits. Nothing wrong, there is no issue there, said H. Shiva Kumar, joint director, food safety and standards, Karnataka, revealing the results of the seven samples analysed.

However, the results on Mono Sodium Glutamate (MSG) were yet to come.

"One more component is MSG. It requires more complex evaluation. That will take another two days, probably on Monday we are expecting that report," added Kumar.

Kumar said samples were being sent to two laboratories in Bengaluru from across the state for testing. "The labs are Robust Material Technology Pvt. Ltd. and PUDSUV, a South Asian laboratory with its main branch in Pune."

"So far, 26 Maggi samples have been sent for testing including the seven already tested. More Maggi samples are in line for tests from across Karnataka districts. Results for all these samples will be out on Monday," said Kumar.

Meanwhile, despite all the hullabaloo, the instant noodles are freely available at various places in Bengaluru city.

"Yesterday only we received an order from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). They (retailers) need to withdraw all the products related to Maggi. Otherwise, if it is found (retailing Maggi), they will definitely be booked under FSSAI Act," said Kumar.

He said Maggi is not banned in Karnataka but withdrawn until further orders.

"We have not used the word ban. There should not be any Maggi in the market until further orders," said Shiva Kumar, adding that steps were being taken to check unauthorised availability from Saturday.

The Karnataka government is also planning to send a notice to food giant Nestle, the maker of Maggi noodles.

"We are going to issue a notice to the company (Nestle). We are taking legal opinion," said Kumar.

He said the Maggi episode was over and now the concentration of the Karnataka government was on other brands and varieties of instant noodles.