Former Mumbai mayor Dr Shubha Raul has urged the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to regulate tattoo inks and chemicals used in incense sticks, citing potential health risks associated with these products.
Raul raised the issue during a meeting with FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe. She also called for a simplified licensing system for authorised food vendors in Mumbai, suggesting that vendors should not have to obtain separate licences from multiple authorities.
According to Raul, there is currently inadequate regulation over the quality and chemical composition of tattoo inks. She pointed out that some inks may contain toxic metals such as arsenic and chromium, which could potentially cause skin allergies, swelling and other health-related complications.
She also highlighted the presence of tattoo artists operating at tourist destinations, hill stations and fairs, and stressed the need for clear safety standards governing the composition, use and possible side effects of tattoo inks.
Raul further sought FDA oversight of incense sticks, arguing that their smoke can cause health problems such as headaches, eye irritation and throat discomfort and may aggravate respiratory conditions such as asthma. She suggested that information about the chemicals used in incense products should be clearly mentioned on their packaging.
Another issue raised during the meeting was the licensing process for food vendors. Raul said authorised vendors often have to obtain separate licences from the FDA/FSSAI and municipal authorities. She proposed a single-window licensing system, or a mechanism under which one licence would suffice, to reduce the burden of repeated applications and renewals.
Raul said Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe responded positively to the proposals and assured her that the issues would be considered.
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