Tamil Nadu: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) suspended the license of a KFC outlet located in the Velavan hypermarket on Saturday. This action followed the discovery that the outlet was using magnesium silicate synthetic, a food additive, to purify used cooking oils, a practice not allowed under FSSAI regulations.
Dr. Mariappan, the Designated Food Safety Officer stated We found the use of magnesium silicate synthetic to purify used oils, which is not permissible as per FSSAI standards. The used oils were not properly disposed of, and the additive was not recorded in the ledgers.
During the inspection, officials confiscated 18 kg of synthetic magnesium silicate and 45 liters of used oil. Additionally, they seized 56 kg of chicken that had been fried 12 hours prior. Samples of oil purified with the synthetic additive and the fried chicken were sent for laboratory analysis.
The inspections at the hypermarket were part of broader efforts to investigate allegations regarding the use of artificial coloring agents. Food safety officials inspected various panipuri stalls in the district following complaints about artificial coloring agents. Over the last two days, we collected three samples each of panipuri and panipuri masala for laboratory analysis. Further actions will be based on the results, added Mariappan.
In response, a KFC spokesperson released an official statement: KFC India adheres to the highest practices and international standards in food preparation. We source high-quality oil and chicken from reputable suppliers, ensuring strict compliance with FSSAI and other relevant safety and quality standards.
The spokesperson further clarified, The use of magnesium silicate as a clarifying agent is approved by the FSSAI, and all KFC chicken, including marinated chicken, is safe for consumption when cooked as per FSSAI norms. We are actively cooperating with authorities to resolve this issue swiftly. We assure consumers that KFC products nationwide are of the highest quality and safe for consumption.
