(a) whether the Government is aware that the Ayurvedic Pharma companies are using Gelatin, which is an animal bye-product for preparing the casings for capsules;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether it is a mandatory for the pharma companies to inform the consumers about the usage of Gelatin in such capsules; and
(d) if so, the steps taken or likely to be taken against these Ayurvedic Pharma companies found violating it ?
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE ( SMT. PANABAKA LAKSHMI)
(a) & (b) Gelation is a pharmaceutical aid allowed for capsule formation of Ayurveda, Siddha & Unani drugs on the recommendation of the Ayurvedic, Siddha & Unani Drugs Technical Advisory Board (ASUDTAB). However, the standards laid down for gelation copsules are required to be strictly observed by the Pharma Companies.
(c) No, Sir.
(d) Question does not arise.