Adulterated Ghee Seized in Surat Amidst Concerns for Public Health

Surat : Alarming reports have surfaced regarding the unscrupulous practices of some dairy manufacturers in Surat, who are allegedly putting the health of consumers at risk by engaging in widespread adulteration, including the addition of substantial quantities of vegetable fat to ghee products.

In a recent incident, food safety officers carried out a raid on Dharam Enterprise, located in Godavari Park on Puna Simada Road in Surat. During the operation, approximately 3,336 liters of ghee, both loose and packaged under the branding of “Swami Narayan Premium cow ghee,” were confiscated. The seized samples have been sent for laboratory testing to ascertain the extent of adulteration and potential health hazards.

The raid on Dharam Enterprise was prompted by the directive of the Deputy Commissioner (Health and Hospital) of the Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) on September 22. Concerned about the reports of adulterated ghee being sold in the city, the SMC took decisive action to protect the health and well-being of the residents of Surat.

The seized ghee, valued at approximately Rs 10 lakh, is now under scrutiny as the Public Health Laboratory examines the samples. Preliminary reports indicate that the ghee does not meet the standards established by the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006. The presence of a significant amount of vegetable fat in the samples raises serious concerns about the quality and authenticity of the product.

The Surat Municipal Corporation has wasted no time in initiating legal proceedings against those responsible for the sale of adulterated ghee within the city. This swift response underscores the gravity of the situation and the commitment of local authorities to safeguard public health.

Dr. Ashish Naik, deputy commissioner (Health and Hospital) said, “Consumers are urged to remain vigilant and exercise caution when purchasing dairy products, particularly ghee, from various sources. The health and well-being of Surat’s residents should always remain a top priority, and any adulteration or compromise in the quality of food products will be met with strict action to protect the public”