A manufacturing unit in Ahmedabad has been sealed and 452 litres of suspected adulterated ghee, valued at approximately ₹2.85 lakh, have been seized following a joint enforcement operation by the Gujarat Food and Drugs Regulatory Authority (FDRA) and the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) on 10 June. The action is part of a statewide crackdown on food adulteration and regulatory violations.

What the Raid Uncovered

The operation targeted Shri Matangi Dairy and Food Products in the Kathwada area of Ahmedabad. A flying squad from Gandhinagar conducted a surprise inspection at the premises on the directions of the state's ongoing anti-adulteration campaign.

Inspecting officers flagged multiple violations, including a strong suspicion of adulteration, the sale of ghee at an unusually low price, the absence of mandatory purchase and sales records, and the lack of a valid food licence. All 452 litres of suspected ghee were seized by Food Safety Officers before the entire factory was sealed to facilitate further investigation.

Unlicensed Production and Identity Fraud Alleged

Authorities said the unit's operators were allegedly manufacturing products without the required regulatory licence. Investigators also found indications that production was being carried out under another firm's name — a matter now under active inquiry. The dual violation, operating without a licence while allegedly using a separate entity's credentials, points to a deliberate attempt to evade oversight, according to officials.

Lab Tests to Determine Next Steps

Samples of the seized ghee have been dispatched to a laboratory for scientific examination. Officials said the test results will dictate the course of further action. Legal proceedings under the relevant provisions of food safety and regulatory laws will be initiated against those responsible if violations are confirmed.

Government's Stance on Food Safety

State Health Minister Praful Pansheriya reaffirmed the government's commitment to protecting public health. 'The state government is fully committed to protecting public health, and such strict and deterrent action against adulteration elements will continue in the future as well,' Pansheriya said.

This operation forms part of a broader enforcement drive by the Gujarat FDRA targeting individuals and businesses suspected of compromising food safety standards across the state. Investigations remain ongoing, and further action is expected once laboratory reports on the seized samples are received.