The Pune division of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) carried out coordinated raids at 17 locations across the city on Friday, confiscating stocks of potentially adulterated dairy products valued at Rs47.36 lakh. The seized items included khoya (condensed milk solids), paneer (cottage cheese), cheese analogue (cheese made with vegetable oil and other ingredients), and ghee.
Details of the Operation
The special drive targeted establishments selling dairy products in Somwar Peth, Budhwar Peth, Shukrawar Peth, Kothrud, and Hadapsar. Conducted under the 'Safe Food, Safe Drug, Safe Maharashtra' campaign led by FDA commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, the inspections resulted in the seizure of stocks lacking labels or purchase invoices, food items stored in unhygienic conditions, and products suspected of adulteration. A total of 35 samples were collected from these establishments and sent to the laboratory for analysis.
Legal Action and Warnings
Digambar Bhogawade, joint commissioner (food) of the FDA Pune division, stated, “Legal proceedings are being initiated against the establishments found to be in violation of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and its associated regulations. Once the laboratory reports are received, we will initiate further action if found adulterated.” He further warned that such enforcement actions would continue against establishments that compromise consumer health and engage in the illegal sale of substandard or adulterated food products.
Breakdown of Seized Stock
- Paneer: 2,806 kg – Rs7,55,605
- Khoya: 13,127 kg – Rs34,35,152
- Cheese Analogue: 138 kg – Rs28,725
- Ghee: 960 kg – Rs5,16,536
- Total: 17,031 kg – Rs47,36,000
The FDA has urged consumers to remain vigilant and report any suspected adulteration. This operation underscores the commitment to ensuring food safety in Maharashtra.
