Adulterated food racket exposed in city

Food adulteration is emerging as a growing concern in Hyderabad, with city police and food safety officials uncovering illegal units producing contaminated food items. From fake ghee and chemically treated ginger-garlic paste to other unsafe products, recent raids have exposed the scale of the problem, prompting stronger enforcement and warnings about the health risks of adulterated food.

In early March, Hyderabad police seized more than 3,000 kg of fake ghee and cream from an illegal unit in Banjara Hills. According to police sources, genuine dairy products were mixed with palm oil, vanaspati and other cheap substances to increase volume and profits. The adulterated product was allegedly sold as pure cow or buffalo ghee and supplied to retail shops, eateries and catering services, putting unsuspecting consumers at risk.

In separate operations in Mallepally and Shastripuram, enforcement teams seized over 1,090 kg of adulterated ginger-garlic paste. Officials found the paste contained additives such as acetic acid, synthetic colours, gum powder and excess salt. It was being produced and stored in unhygienic conditions, exposed to dust and flies. Authorities also found the unit was operating with an expired FSSAI licence, raising concerns about illegal distribution networks supplying grocery stores, restaurants and catering businesses.

To curb such practices, city police have intensified enforcement through the Anti Food Adulteration Team (AFAT), working with the Food Safety Authority and the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC). Teams are inspecting factories, warehouses and retail outlets for unlicensed operations and unsafe production practices, while tracing supply chains distributing counterfeit products.

Dr Sangeetha, FSSAI Commissioner for Hyderabad, said food adulteration in Telangana is being taken seriously, with increased inspections and monitoring. According to National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, Hyderabad reported a high number of food adulteration cases in 2022, highlighting the need for continued vigilance.

Health experts warn adulterated food can cause gastrointestinal illnesses, allergic reactions and long-term health problems. Authorities have urged citizens to check FSSAI licences on products and report suspicious food practices to civic or law-enforcement agencies.