Certain Indian states, including Tamil Nadu and Kerala, have prohibited the sale of cotton candy following investigations that verified the presence of Rhodamine-B, an industrial dye, in the samples.

RHODAMINE-B

ABOUT RHODAMINE-B

  • Definition of Rhodamine-B: Rhodamine-B is a water-soluble chemical compound classified as a fluorescent xanthene dye.

  • Applications: It is used in a variety of applications.

  • Health and Environmental Risks: Rhodamine-B poses significant risks, including:

    • Skin and eye irritation
    • Gastrointestinal disturbances
    • Respiratory issues
    • Organ damage
    • Increased risk of cancer
  • Regulation: Under the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006, Rhodamine-B is considered substandard and unsafe for use.

  • Textile, Paper, Paints, and Leather Dyeing: Rhodamine-B is used in dyeing processes for textiles, paper, paints, and leather, imparting a vivid pink shade.

  • Food Coloring Agent: It is utilized as a food coloring agent, particularly in cotton candy to achieve its signature pink appearance.

  • Tracer Dye: Rhodamine-B is employed as a tracer dye to:

    • Assess the rate and direction of water movement in rivers and lakes.
    • Identify pollutants in aquatic systems.
    • Monitor herbicide application.
    • Detect leaks in pipelines due to its high visibility and solubility in water.
  • Fluorescent Properties: Rhodamine dyes are known for their fluorescent properties, making them suitable for use in fluorescence microscopy and related applications.

Consider  the following statements about Rhodamine-B 

1) Rhodamine-B is used as a food coloring agent, especially in cotton candy.
2) It is employed in dyeing processes for textiles, paper, paints, and leather, imparting a blue shade.
3) Rhodamine-B is used as a tracer dye to assess the rate and direction of water movement in rivers and lakes.
4) Rhodamine-B is known for its fluorescent properties, making it useful in fluorescence microscopy.
5) It is a chemical that poses no health or environmental risks.

How many pair/ pairs is /are not  correct ?
A. One pair
B.Two pairs
C. Three pairs
D. None

 

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