Nadira GUNATILLEKE
The Health Ministry has warned the public against consuming fruit and soft drinks that are sold on waysides following the discovery that such drinks are unhygienic and contain certain substances such as artificial colouring and chemicals, that are injurious to health, a ministry spokesman said.
According to the spokesman such drinks are made out of unhygienic water which cause hepatitis and diarrhoea. "Certain artificial unapproved colouring can cause cancer. The number of persons admitted to state hospitals after consuming fruit drinks, 'Sherbet' and other similar soft drinks sold on roadsides have gone up significantly.
'This shows the danger of consuming such contaminated drinks on sale on roadsides," he said.
Health Minister Maithripala Sirisena has instructed Health Services Director General Dr. Ajith Mendis to implement a special programme to ensure the safety and quality of soft drinks sold on roadsides.
The director general is the key authority responsible for regulating food and drugs. Dr. Mendis issued a special circular in this connection yesterday, he said.
According to the circular, health authorities will inspect all soft drinks and similar drinks available in snack bars and roadsides for sale.
Legal action will be taken against those who violate rules and regulations laid down in Food Act number 26 of 1980, he added.
http://www.dailynews.lk/2011/11/24/news32.asp
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