Was an Adulterated Ghee Stock Seized in Gujarat's Surendranagar?
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Synopsis
A recent raid in Surendranagar, Gujarat, has uncovered a significant consignment of suspected adulterated ghee and butter, valued at Rs 13.16 lakh. This operation shines a light on the urgent issue of food safety in the state. Stay tuned for more updates on the lab results and implications.
Key Takeaways
- 520 kg of loose ghee seized.
- 1,950 packets of branded ghee confiscated.
- 65 boxes of pasteurized butter taken.
- Lab testing initiated for quality assurance.
- Ongoing concerns regarding food safety in Gujarat.
Surendranagar, June 5 (NationPress) - The Supply Department and the Food Safety Department in Gujarat conducted a joint operation on Than-Chotila Road, leading to the seizure of a suspected adulterated shipment of ghee and butter estimated at Rs 13.16 lakh.
During the unscheduled inspection, officials confiscated 520 kilograms of loose ghee, 1,950 packets of a popular branded ghee, and 65 boxes of pasteurized butter.
With doubts surrounding the quality of the confiscated items, the team collected five samples, which have been dispatched to a laboratory for thorough testing.
Authorities have stated that further measures will depend on the laboratory findings, which are anticipated to determine if the products comply with established food safety standards.
This operation underscores the persistent issue of illicit trade in inferior ghee and edible oils, especially in urban areas.
Despite growing consumer concerns, there has been little substantial action in regions where similar infractions are believed to be widespread.
Food adulteration continues to pose a significant challenge in Gujarat, with recent statistics revealing ongoing difficulties in safeguarding food quality within the state.
From April to September 2024, the Gujarat Food and Drugs Control Administration (FDCA) evaluated 4,316 food samples, with 360 samples—approximately 8.3 percent—not meeting safety criteria.
In light of these revelations, the FDCA has ramped up its enforcement measures. Between January 2023 and March 2024, the administration executed 15 special drives focused on adulterated food products, including ghee, sweets, dry fruits, and spices. These initiatives led to the collection of 18,686 samples and the seizure of 772.7 tonnes of suspected adulterated food valued at Rs 5.53 crore.
Moreover, 13.8 tonnes of unsafe food worth Rs 43.88 lakh were destroyed. A key initiative during this timeline was the "Food Safety Fortnight" campaign, which took place from October 3 to October 17, 2024. Over this 15-day period, FDCA officials conducted raids at 115 locations statewide, seizing or destroying around 233 tonnes of suspected adulterated food items, including 32 tonnes of inedible ghee valued at Rs 3.8 crore and 36 tonnes of sweet ‘mava’.
Despite these vigorous efforts, challenges remain. For example, in February 2025, officials confiscated 4,000 kg of adulterated ghee worth Rs 17.5 lakh in Gujarat's Banaskantha district. This contaminated clarified butter was intended for sale in nearby Rajasthan during festival times.
Point of View
The need for stringent regulations and enforcement against food adulteration cannot be overstated. With growing public awareness and concern, it is essential that authorities take decisive action to ensure food safety and restore consumer trust. The recent raids, while commendable, highlight the ongoing challenges that remain in protecting the public from unsafe food products.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was seized in the recent raid in Surendranagar?
Authorities seized 520 kilograms of loose ghee, 1,950 packets of branded ghee, and 65 boxes of pasteurized butter, all suspected of being adulterated.
What will happen to the seized products?
The seized products have been sent for laboratory testing to determine if they meet food safety standards, with further action pending those results.
How serious is the issue of food adulteration in Gujarat?
Food adulteration is a significant concern in Gujarat, with recent statistics showing that a notable percentage of food samples fail to meet safety standards, highlighting the need for increased enforcement.
What actions have been taken against food adulteration in Gujarat?
The Gujarat Food and Drugs Control Administration has conducted special drives and campaigns to target adulterated food products, leading to substantial seizures and destruction of unsafe items.
What are the implications of this raid for consumers?
This raid underscores the importance of vigilance in food safety and the need for consumers to be aware of potential risks associated with adulterated food products.
