Key Update

Authorities seized a large quantity of adulterated ginger-garlic paste meant for supply to restaurants and retail outlets during a raid in Hyderabad. The operation was carried out by the Commissioner’s Task Force (Khairtabad Zone) along with the H-Fast Team of the Hyderabad City Police. Officials said the raid targeted a manufacturing unit operating as SKR Food Products in the Kattedan area. According to the police, the unit had been producing and distributing adulterated ginger-garlic paste to restaurants and local retail outlets while failing to follow basic hygiene and safety standards.

Large Quantity of Adulterated Products Seized

During the operation, authorities seized over 4,032 kg of adulterated ginger-garlic paste and 6,210 kg of low-quality raw materials. The total value of the seized items was estimated at ₹22 lakh. Photos and videos shared by the police showed raw garlic dumped directly on the floor and exposed to dirt and contamination. Officials found the ginger-garlic paste being processed in unclean and poorly maintained surroundings. Investigators also reported a complete lack of basic sanitation at the facility. The unit had not followed proper cleaning, storage and handling practices during the manufacturing process.

Use of Inferior Ingredients

Police said the operators used inferior raw materials along with additives such as acetic acid and xanthan gum while preparing the paste. Authorities arrested the unit’s owner, Hasan Ali Rupani (55), for manufacturing adulterated food products. Police later handed him over to the Mailardevpally Police for further investigation. In another operation, the Hyderabad City Police raided an unhygienic ice candy and lassi manufacturing unit in Mehdipatnam and arrested one person. Officials said the accused had been preparing and supplying products using unsafe ingredients and chemicals. During the raid, authorities seized large quantities of products, raw materials and equipment worth ₹5.44 lakh.

Source: CNBC18