New Delhi, Nov 9 (KNN) In a move to restrict unhygienic manufacturing of food grade silver leaf (Chandi ka wark), the Food Safety and Standard Authority of India (FSSAI), through an order, has asked the states to ensure that the food-grade silver leaf used on sweets is not made using material of animal origin, in line with the country’s apex food regulator’s notification two years ago.

FSSAI said it has been brought to the notice of food regulator that some unscrupulous food business operators are still involved in manufacturing of food grade silver leaf (Chandi ka wark) by using materials of animal origin.

In wake of this, Commissioner of food safety of States/UTs are requested to carry out surveillance and take strict actions against those violating the orders.

In 2016, FSSAI banned the use of materials of animal origin in the manufacturing of chandi ka warq (silver leaf), which is used to decorate sweets and pan.

In Regulation 2.11.4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Food Product Standards and Food Additives), Regulations, 2011, pertaining to chandi ka warq, the regulator had prescribed the silver content and the form in which the leaf should be manufactured.

The regulation stated that, “It should be in the form of a sheet of uniform thickness, free from creases and folds. The weight of the silver leaf should be up to 2.8g/sq m, and silver content should be of minimum 999/1,000 fineness.”

“It should not be manufactured using any material of animal origin at any stage and be in accordance with the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards (Contaminants, Toxins and Residues) Regulations, 2011, and the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging and Labelling) Regulations, 2011.

Silver leaf or chandi ka wark is used by many confectionery stores to decorate sweets and chocolates. It is also used for decorating and garnishing eatable items.