Ration rice turns blue on washing in Kottayam, authorities scramble for answers

Kottayam: In an unusual incident, raw rice supplied through a ration shop in Enthayar near Mundakayam turned blue when washed, raising concerns over the quality of the rice being distributed.

The issue came to light at the home of Biju Thomas of Nirappel House, who noticed the colour change immediately upon adding water to the rice. In addition to the unusual discolouration, the rice was found to disintegrate into powder during washing. 

Biju initially informed the ration shop dealer about the issue and later lodged a complaint with the Food Safety Department. Officials first attributed the phenomenon to a possible chemical reaction caused by high iron content in the water. However, this explanation was questioned after the rice continued to turn blue even when washed using water from an entirely different source.

Subsequently, a formal complaint was filed with the Civil Supplies Office. The Taluk Supply Officer said a detailed report has been sought to ascertain whether other consumers supplied by the same outlet are facing similar problems.