The Minister of Health today gave an undertaking to 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 categories in separate. 

Additional Solicitor General Sumathi Dharmawardena appearing for the Minister of Health gave this undertaking in connection with a writ petition filed by Ven. Medille Pangaloka There and two lawyers. The petitioners had sought an order directing the authorities from importing coconut oil mixed up with poisonous substances such as Mycotoxins.

According to the World Health Organisation, Aflatoxin are amongst the most poisonous Mycotoxins and are produced by certain moulds which grow in soil, decaying vegetation, hay and grains.

The petitioners had also sought an order in the nature of writ of Mandamus directing the Inspector General of Police to conduct an investigation into the release of the contaminated coconut oil to the market for human consumption. 

The court was informed that this writ petition will be withdrawn by the petitioners following government’s undertaking to bring new regulations. The petition was fixed for November 15. (Lakmal Sooriyagoda)