Not just Maggi, Karnataka's Health Minister has ordered tests on other noodle brands too.
Karnataka has joined the list of states that has sent samples of Maggi noodles for testing after reports from other parts of the country revealed that the lead content in the popular snack was higher than the permissible limits.
Karnataka's Health Minister, UT Khader told NDTV that he had directed food officials and health department officials to take samples from manufacturing units and retail outlets in the state and send them for testing.
"Centrally recognized labs are there apart from our government based central labs. There are good private labs also who are recognized centrally for their quality. So we have sent these samples there too. Once we get the reports, we will take further actions," he said.
"They have asked for minimum of 48 hours. I have asked for the results at the earliest," added the minister.
Until the reports are out, the minister has requested people not to purchase Maggi.
"I will request my people. I can't order until I have got any justification. They shouldn't buy these things now. And they shouldn't give it to their children now. And the retail man who is selling this also should think this is unhealthy to the society and the public and the human being. So he should think money is not important, health of the society is important. And he also shouldn't sell it. It is my request to them. Once I get a report then there will be an order." he said.
Mr Khader also said that other noodle brands, apart from Maggi, would also be tested. "What I am thinking is one step ahead. The company is not important for us, but the food item is. So my second round is to check all the noodles and inform the people about its ill effects. "