Nestle says not aware of test on pasta items in UP

#Lucknow :   Facing a fresh controversy, Nestle India said its products are safe for consumption and it was not aware of any test done on pasta brands by a Uttar Pradesh-run lab, which has allegedly found lead contents beyond permissible limits.

“We are not aware of any analysis reports for Pazzta supposedly picked up from Sriji Traders,” said a Nestle India Spokesperson. As per the company’s website, Nestle sells pasta under its brand Maggi Pazzta in four flavours – Masala Penne, Cheese Macaroni, Mushroom Penne and Tomato Twist.

Pazzta samples were collected from Nestle distributor – Sriji Traders at Mau on June 10 and were sent to a Lucknow-based government laboratory. The National Food Analysis Laboratory, Lucknow found led limit to be 6 PPM (parts per million), beyond the permissible limit of 2.5 PPM, said Designated Officer at Food and Drug Administration Mau, Arvind Yadav.

“The Pazzta manufactured by us is 100 per cent safe and there is absolutely no concern on lead. Therefore, we need to see the contents of reports and we also need to confirm whether these supposed tests have been conducted at FSSAI Notified and NABL accredited laboratory that has the expertise and is certified for testing lead under the Food Safety and Standards Act,” Nestle India said.