Key Development

The Uttar Pradesh police in Sambhal seized 923 litres of fake ghee and hundreds of counterfeit packaging materials during a crackdown targeting unsafe and adulterated food products. Authorities arrested five men involved in producing and distributing counterfeit ghee, posing a significant risk to public health. The operation was part of a joint effort by Dhanari police and the Special Operations Group near Khajra Mod.

Adulterated Ghee Made Using Hazardous Ingredients

Police investigations revealed that the gang manufactured fake ghee by mixing Dalda and refined oil with artificial ghee essence to imitate the aroma of genuine ghee. They then packed the adulterated product into counterfeit pouches bearing well-known brands such as Amul, Madhusudan, and Mother Dairy. This deliberate adulteration violates food safety standards and endangers consumer health. Officials also uncovered that the group repackaged Mayur salt into Tata Salt packets and sold expired coffee disguised in Nescafé jars. Such practices further compromise food quality and consumer safety.

Raids Uncover Equipment Used for Food Adulteration

Police raided the primary manufacturing site at the residence of one of the arrested individuals, Praveen Jain, in Baraut, and seized machinery and materials used in the illegal operation. Confiscated items included gas stoves, packing machines, artificial essences, brand-printing dyes, and hundreds of counterfeit cartons and wrappers. These tools facilitated the large-scale production of unsafe food products.

Legal Action and Ongoing Investigation

Authorities charged the accused under the Food Safety and Standards Act and the Trade Marks Act, emphasising the seriousness of food adulteration offences. The accused appeared before the court and were placed in judicial custody. Police continue to probe the distribution network to assess the full extent of public exposure to these hazardous products. This operation highlights the critical role of vigilant food safety enforcement in protecting consumers from harmful adulterated products. The crackdown sends a strong message against violations that risk public health and undermine trust in food brands.

Source: The Indian Express