Andhra Pradesh has restarted the testing of cotton candy sold in public places after almost two years of delay. Cotton candy contains harmful colouring agents like Rhodamine B, banned in the state. Despite this, cotton candy sales continue at gatherings in Vijayawada, including the recent Book Festival. The ban was delayed due to difficulties in collecting samples because sellers often move from place to place and come from other states. "In 2024, the ban in neighbouring states caused fear among sellers in the State, and for three to four months, they were out of sight, making it difficult for our officers to go ahead with the sample collection process," said A.P. Joint Food Controller N. Purnachandra Rao. The Food Safety department plans to collect samples first in Guntur and Vijayawada. A ban on cotton candy sales can only happen after laboratory confirmation of banned dyes. Along with Rhodamine B, Metanil Yellow is also prohibited. Some synthetic colours like Tartrazine are allowed within limits in sweets, bakery items, cold drinks, and paan masala. However, their use is banned in hot food items. Mr. Purnachandra Rao also urged parents to avoid buying cotton candy as they are often made in unhygienic conditions.