Report

In December 2024, the Gujarat Food and Drugs Control Administration (FDCA) inspected over 22 lakh litres of milk across the state and confirmed that none of the samples showed signs of adulteration.

Comprehensive Inspections Across Borders and Dairies

The FDCA rigorously inspected state borders, scrutinized tankers entering Gujarat, and monitored dairies across the state. Officials tested milk quality from over 182 tankers at 14 dairies. FDCA Commissioner Dr H.G. Koshia stated that they launched the initiative in response to numerous complaints from residents about milk quality and adulteration.

On-Site Testing with Food Safety Labs

Specialized teams tested approximately 900 milk samples delivered to dairies via tankers, cans, and other means. Using the Food Safety Lab on Wheels, officials verified that over 15 lakh litres of milk from Gujarat and 7 lakh litres from other states met the required standards. The tests confirmed the absence of harmful substances like urea, sucrose, maltodextrin, sodium bicarbonate, detergent, and other chemicals.

Border Checks for Incoming Milk Tankers

Teams stationed at four checkpoints—Ratanpur (Aravalli district), Bajipura (Tapi district), Pitol (Dahod district), and Sabar Dairy (Himmatnagar)—examined milk tankers from Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan. Using Milkoscan machines, officials immediately tested 41 samples from 31 tankers at these checkpoints. All samples met the quality standards. Additionally, the teams collected 29 surveillance samples for further testing at the laboratory. During the inspections, officials reviewed over 6.25 lakh litres of milk transported in sealed tankers, each carrying 10,000 to 28,000 litres and accompanied by milk quality reports. These tankers were directed to designated facilities, where seals were broken, milk quality was verified, and vehicles cleared for further transport.

Ongoing Efforts to Ensure Milk Safety

Dr. Koshia emphasized that the FDCA regularly conducts statewide milk sampling to ensure compliance with quality standards. In 2023, the FDCA collected around 3,300 samples, with 3% failing to meet standards. Appropriate actions were taken in line with regulations. This extensive inspection underscores the FDCA’s commitment to maintaining high standards in milk quality and ensuring public health safety.

Source: The Indian Express