Comprehensive regulations  to control releasing of contaminated coconut oil to the market

The Minister of Health today gave an undertaking to the Court of Appeal to bring comprehensive regulation to control Mycotoxins (Aflatoxin is one type of Mycotoxin) in all types of food items, considering the specific levels for each food category separately. Additional Solicitor General Sumathi Dharmawardena appearing for the Minister of Health gave this undertaking in connection with a writ petition filed by Ven. Medill Pangaloka There and two lawyers. The petitioners had sought an order directing the authorities to stop importing coconut oil mixed with poisonous substances such as mycotoxins. According to the World Health Organisation, Aflatoxin is amongst the most poisonous Mycotoxins and is produced by certain moulds which grow in soil, decaying vegetation, hay and grains. The petitioners had also sought an order in the nature of a writ of Mandamus directing the Inspector General of Police to conduct an investigation into the release of contaminated coconut oil to the market for human consumption. The court was informed that this writ petition would be withdrawn by the petitioners following the government's undertaking to revise regulations. The Court fixed the hearing date for November 15