A staple in Indian refrigerators, curd is celebrated for its digestive benefits, probiotics, and versatility in dishes from kadhi to raita. However, a recent social media storm has cast a shadow over the safety of a popular packaged variant, sparking a major debate between consumer claims and corporate assurance.
The Viral Allegation: Contamination in Pouch-Packed Dahi?
The controversy ignited when an Instagram handle named Trustified posted a video claiming that samples of Amul Masti Dahi had failed to meet established food safety benchmarks. The test specifically compared the product's pouch and cup packaging formats.
According to the viral post, the Solid Not Fat (SNF) content in the pouch was measured at 11.29%, which is above the FSSAI minimum requirement of 8.5%. More alarmingly, the microbiological tests reportedly detected the presence of Coliforms, yeast, and mold in quantities significantly higher than the limits prescribed by India's food safety regulator. The video concluded that the hygiene level in the pouch packaging was inferior to the cup variant.
Amul's Firm Rebuttal and Quality Assurance
On January 5, Amul addressed the growing concern directly on social media platform X (formerly Twitter). In a post that has since garnered over 247,000 views, the dairy giant labeled the video as "misinformation" designed to spread fear.
The company raised questions about the sample's handling, stating, "Dahi is a live product with healthy bacteria and should be handled carefully as per the instructions on the pack. We are not sure how the sample was drawn and handled before testing."
Amul provided a detailed clarification, asserting that the specific batch in question (batch number SR04CM with a Use-by date of 7.12.25) underwent and passed all mandatory checks. "Amul Masti Dahi pack meets all quality requirements mentioned under FSSAI as well as Amul internal quality standards," the statement read.
The brand emphasized its manufacturing rigor, noting production occurs in ISO-certified dairies with the product undergoing more than 50 stringent quality tests, including hygiene assessments, before dispatch. Crucially, Amul clarified that the processing and hygiene steps for both pouch and cup packaging are identical, with the price difference stemming only from packaging material costs, not quality standards.
Back to Basics: How to Set Curd at Home
Amidst debates over packaged food safety, many consumers turn to traditional methods. Here are two simple ways to prepare fresh curd at home.
Traditional Method with Starter Culture:
- Boil one litre of full-cream milk and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Allow the milk to cool until it is lukewarm (test by dipping a finger comfortably for 5-7 seconds).
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of existing curd as a starter and mix gently.
- Cover the bowl and keep it in a warm, undisturbed spot for 6-8 hours (or overnight in cooler climates).
- Refrigerate after setting to achieve a firmer texture.
Unique Method using Green Chillies:
- Follow the same initial steps to boil and cool the milk to lukewarm.
- Take 2 green chillies with stems, slit them lengthwise, and add them (with seeds) to the milk.
- Mix gently, cover, and let it sit undisturbed for 8-10 hours.
- Once set, refrigerate before serving.
This incident highlights the powerful role of social media in shaping consumer perception and the swift response expected from trusted brands. While Amul has strongly defended its processes, the episode serves as a reminder for consumers to be critical of viral content and for brands to maintain transparent communication. What is your take on such independent tests and corporate clarifications? Do they empower you or add to the confusion? Share your feedback.
