Punjab steps in to check adulterated desi ghee

Patiala, November 16 

Alarmed at adulterated desi ghee making its way into Punjab markets, the state government has restricted its manufacture and sale. Henceforth, desi ghee derived from milk fat alone will be allowed for sale in the state.

Manufacturers, including reputed brands, were reportedly mixing fat derived from hydrogenated vegetable oil and palm oil to cut costs. “Foreign fat is unfit for human consumption,” said an expert.

Commissioner Food and Drugs Administration KS Pannu said the government lab at Kharar had pointed out that several samples of desi ghee did not contain milk fat. 

A notice has  been issued asking those dealing with manufacture/sale/distribution of the product to file objections within 15 days. Food safety officers have been told to share the information with food business operators. —TNS