Overview

Following a two-day inspection, Karnataka’s Food Safety and Drug Administration Department (FDA) found that nearly 50% of local manufacturers of ice cream, ice candy, and soft drinks violate hygiene and safety standards. Out of 220 units inspected, 97 received official notices, while the remaining were warned for poor storage practices.

Alarming Additives in Popular Products

According to a senior FDA official, some manufacturers added detergent powder to ice cream to improve texture and phosphoric acid to soft drinks for extra fizz—a chemical known to weaken bones. The department levied ₹ $38,000 in fines for these violations. During the two-day statewide inspection, authorities uncovered the use of synthetic milk made from urea, detergent, or starch. Instead of natural sugar, many units used saccharin and unauthorized dyes to cut costs and boost visual appeal. Several manufacturers used unsafe or non-potable water and excessive flavoring agents, often sourced from unverified suppliers. The FDA launched the inspections to assess the quality of foods commonly consumed by children. Every local production unit involved in making ice creams and cool drinks came under review.

Hotels and Mess Halls Also Under Watch

In a simultaneous operation, officials inspected 590 hotels, eateries, and mess halls. They found 214 establishments lacking proper pest control measures and fined them ₹1,15,000.

Source: The New Indian Express