Street Food Turns Yellow as Maharashtra FDA Cracks Down on Artificial Colours

A crackdown by the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on artificial food colours has led to a noticeable change in street food across Mumbai and the state, with popular items such as chicken lollipops, Manchurian balls, and shawarma turning yellow as vendors abandon synthetic dyes.

The regulatory push, known locally as the 'Tukaram Mundhe effect' after Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, has targeted the widespread use of artificial colouring agents in commercial and roadside food preparation.

To avoid stringent administrative penalties, including fines and the suspension of their operating licenses, street food vendors have begun altering their cooking methods. The shift away from synthetic colour additives has directly affected the presentation of several staple dishes, replacing bright red and artificially enhanced tones with natural yellow shades.