Tuesday, February 1 2005 13:14 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Mumbai: The Food and Drug Authority is conducting Maharashtra-wide raids on Gutkha manufacturers, wholesellers and agents, a senior official said yesterday (Jan 31, 2005).

Joint Commissioner H D Salunke said that raids are being conducted all over the State.

"The State Government ordered raids on Gutkha manufacturers following findings that showed high degree of magnesium carbonate present in Gutkha," Salunke said adding that more information on raid would be available by today (Feb 01, 2005).

He said that tests would be conducted on products to ascertain the presence of the chemical in gutkha.

The State Government banned some Gutkha products that contained harmful chemicals in the State on January 29.