Delhi's Food Safety Department has undertaken a major pre-festive crackdown, destroying over 2,800 kilograms of unsafe and unhygienic dairy products across key markets. The seized items, including khoya, paneer, and butter, were deemed unfit for consumption following inspections and laboratory tests.
Extensive Market Raids Uncover Unsafe Products
The extensive drive, initiated under the directive of Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh, targeted several prominent food markets, including Khoya Mandi, Mori Gate, Bagh Deewar, Sanjay Market, and Janakpuri Mandi. Authorities focused on identifying suspected adulteration, poor storage conditions, and overall product quality.
During the inspections, around 2,830 kg of unclaimed khoya, dhaap, and butter were found in severely unhygienic conditions, emitting foul smells and showing clear signs of deterioration. Despite public announcements for sellers to claim the items, no one came forward. This considerable stock was subsequently confiscated and destroyed at the MCD dumping site in Majnu Ka Tila, adhering to the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Lab Tests Confirm Adulteration and Poor Quality
Further investigations revealed alarming results from laboratory analyses. All ten samples of khoya and cream collected from Mori Gate were found to be non-conforming during tests at the State Laboratory. Additionally, spot analyses using the Food Safety Wheel at Janakpuri Mandi identified four out of 28 surveillance samples as positive for detergent contamination. As a precautionary measure, approximately 150 kg of paneer and 10 kg of khoya were destroyed at this location.
Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh emphasized the government's unwavering commitment to public health. "Festive preparations must not come at the cost of food safety. We will ensure that no unsafe or adulterated food reaches the people of Delhi," Singh stated, adding that stringent action would be taken against those who jeopardize consumer well-being.
Heightened Surveillance During Festive Season
The Food Safety Department has been instructed to maintain heightened surveillance and continue intensive inspections throughout the festive season, a period when demand for sweets and dairy products typically surges. Officials are urged to take prompt and decisive action against any detection of adulterated or unsafe food, making consumer safety the paramount priority.
Consumers and food businesses alike are advised to ensure that only safe and compliant products are sold and purchased, contributing to a healthier festive environment for everyone in Delhi.