Key Update

The Telangana Food Safety Department has suspended the operational licences of two dairy units in Sangareddy district after inspections uncovered multiple alleged food safety, hygiene and labelling violations. During raids conducted on July 7 and 8, food safety officials seized 3,800 kilograms of cream worth ₹9.22 lakh and collected samples of milk, curd and paneer for laboratory analysis.

Expired Chemicals Used in Quality Testing

According to the Office of the Commissioner of Food Safety, inspectors found that both dairy units had allegedly used expired laboratory reagents and chemicals in their in-house testing facilities. Authorities said the practice could compromise the accuracy and reliability of food safety testing carried out by the units.

Misbranding and Misleading Claims Detected

Inspectors also documented several alleged misbranding and deceptive marketing practices. The department identified dairy products marketed under the “Keston Curd” and “Divya Curds” labels as allegedly misbranded. Officials also flagged misleading claims and advertisements associated with “Keston Paneer”, citing non-compliance with food labelling and advertising requirements.

Poor Hygiene and Storage Practices

The inspections revealed multiple hygiene and operational deficiencies inside the processing facilities. Officials reported poor sanitation, improper food storage practices, active pest infestations and structural shortcomings that could increase the risk of food contamination. Authorities also found inadequate documentation and record-keeping systems, limiting the ability to trace products across the supply chain.

Samples Sent for Laboratory Analysis

Food safety officials collected multiple samples of milk, curd and paneer during the inspections and sent them for laboratory testing. The department said further regulatory action will depend on the laboratory findings and the outcome of the investigation. The enforcement action forms part of Telangana’s ongoing efforts to strengthen food safety compliance and ensure dairy products placed on the market meet prescribed quality, hygiene and labelling standards.

Source: Food & Beverage News