In a significant crackdown on food adulteration, authorities in Jaipur seized a massive quantity of ghee suspected to be contaminated on Thursday. The operation targeted three warehouses associated with two food processing firms, resulting in the confiscation of 43,421 litres of ghee.
Details of the Seized Stock
The seized stock comprised three distinct brands of ghee, all suspected of being adulterated. The breakdown of the confiscated items is as follows:
- Bhog Vinayak brand ghee: 9,065 litres in various pack sizes
- Haryana Cream brand ghee: 17,741 litres
- Naksh Dairy brand ghee: 16,617 litres
Food safety officials have collected samples from each brand and dispatched them to laboratories for comprehensive testing to determine the exact nature and extent of adulteration.
Background of the Operation
The action was initiated following alarming test reports from Pratapgarh district, where samples of Bhog Vinayak brand ghee were found to be unsafe for consumption. Food Safety Commissioner T Shubhmangala confirmed that these findings prompted immediate investigation and enforcement measures.
Inspection Findings
A dedicated team inspected the premises of Girdhar Milk Food Product, which is officially registered at Shyam Vihar Colony, Macheda, Jaipur. During the inspection, officials discovered that the firm was not operational at its licensed address. Instead, it was conducting ghee business from an unauthorized location, constituting a clear violation of the Food Safety and Standards Act.
Discovery of a Second Firm
Further scrutiny revealed that another entity, Shri Shyam Milk Food Product, was operating from the same establishment. Authorities seized the combined stock of both firms after taking samples for analysis. The simultaneous operation of two firms from one location raised additional concerns about regulatory compliance and food safety standards.
Previous Actions and Future Steps
Prior to this seizure, the central food testing laboratory in Jaipur had already confirmed that a sample of Bhog Vinayak brand ghee was unsafe. In response, orders were issued for the immediate recall of this product from markets across the state. Additionally, proceedings have been initiated to cancel the food licence of the firm responsible for this brand.
Authorities have stated that further action will be determined based on the test results of the newly collected samples. The findings will guide subsequent legal and regulatory measures to ensure consumer safety and uphold food quality standards.
This operation underscores the ongoing efforts by food safety officials in Rajasthan to combat adulteration and protect public health. Consumers are advised to remain vigilant and report any suspicious food products to the relevant authorities.
