• According to WHO, Aflatoxins are amongst the most poisonous Mycotoxins
• The petitioners had also sought an order directing the IGP to conduct an  investigation into the release of the contaminated coconut oil to the  market

By Lakmal Sooriyagoda   

The Minister of Health yesterday gave an undertaking to the Court of Appeal to bring comprehensive regulations 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. Medille Pagnaloka Thera and two lawyers. The petitioners had sought an order preventing the authorities from importing coconut oil mixed up with poisonous substances such as Mycotoxins.  

According to the World Health Organisation, Aflatoxins 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The court was informed that this writ petition will be withdrawn by the petitioners following the government’s undertaking to bring new regulations. The petition was fixed for November 15. 

• The court was informed that this writ petition will be withdrawn by the  petitioners following the government’s undertaking to bring new  regulations