Hyderabad: In a major crackdown on food adulteration, the Hyderabad Food Adulteration Surveillance Team (H-FAST), in coordination with the GHMC Food Safety Department, conducted a special enforcement drive against spice trading and processing units across the city.
Acting on credible public information, officials inspected 13 establishments suspected of engaging in illegal food adulteration. During the operation, authorities seized more than 25 tonnes (25,300 kg) of adulterated spices that were allegedly mixed with hazardous chemicals and poisonous substances.
Police registered three criminal cases—two at Mailardevpally Police Station and one at Balapur Police Station. Three accused were arrested in connection with the case.
Harmful Chemicals Found
According to investigators, several traders allegedly used industrial and fabric dyes, synthetic food colours, talcum (shining) powder, rice bran oil, and other non-edible substances to adulterate commonly used spices. The chemicals were reportedly added to improve the colour, weight, and appearance of products, enabling illegal profits while posing serious health risks to consumers.
The adulteration was found in spices including:
- Ajwain (carom seeds)
- Jeera (cumin)
- Shahjeera (black cumin)
- Cloves
- Mustard seeds
- Fennel seeds
Items Seized
During the raids, officials recovered:
- 25,300 kg of adulterated spices
- 89,150 kg of raw materials
- 12 litres of rice bran oil
- 1.5 kg of synthetic and fabric dyes
- Three rolling machines used in the processing operation
Officials Warn Public
Officials said the drive is part of ongoing efforts to protect public health and ensure food safety in Hyderabad. They warned that strict legal action will continue against those involved in manufacturing or selling adulterated food products.
Citizens have been urged to purchase spices only from trusted and licensed sellers and to report any suspected cases of food adulteration to the authorities.
