50-kg fake ghee, cream, milk powder seized in raid

The Food Safety Department, Ludhiana, conducted a major raid on Monday in the Sham Nagar area based on a tip-off. During the raid, fake desi ghee preparation was found inside a house. From the scene, the team seized nearly 50 kg of fake desi ghee, cream and milk powder, which were being used to prepare adulterated ghee. All material were confiscated and a detailed investigation in the matter has been initiated.

Preliminary inquiry revealed that individuals involved had previously been engaged in similar illegal activities of preparing adulterated food products. Action had already been taken against them under the Food Safety and Standards Act in 2017 and 2020. Furthermore, in 2023, the court had declared them absconders. It clearly shows that the suspects had been repeatedly endangering public health. During the raid, with the support of the Bus Stand police post team, one woman connected to the case was taken into custody.

The Food Safety team collected samples of ghee, cream, and milk powder from the spot, which have been sent to the laboratory for further testing. Once reports are received, strict legal action will be taken against individuals under the Food Safety and Standards Act. The operation was successfully conducted by Food Safety Officers Yogesh Goyal, Divyajot Kaur and Harsimran Kaur in coordination with the police team.

Civil Surgeon Ramandeep Kaur said during the festive season, consumption of food items prepared by using fake ghee, cream and other low-quality materials poses a serious threat to people’s health. She emphasised that such illegal activities not only endanger public life but also put a huge burden on the healthcare system.

She said the Food Safety Department and the police had adopted a zero-tolerance policy against such illegal activities.

Dr Ramandeep Kaur appealed to the public to always purchase sweets, ghee and other food items only from licensed shops during the festival season. She advised people to carefully check quality, standards, and packaging before purchasing. If anyone comes across any suspicious food item, immediately report the matter to the Food Safety Department.