Food safety violations came to light in Hyderabad after authorities seized over 5,000 litres of adulterated cooking oil and more than 5,000 kilograms of wheat flour during raids conducted in the Gachibowli area.
The operation was carried out by the Madhapur Special Operations Team (SOT) on March 9, 2026, following a tip-off about an ongoing food adulteration racket. Officials raided two premises located in NTR Nagar and Vattinagulapally in Gachibowli, uncovering large quantities of contaminated food products and packaging equipment.
Accused Running Adulteration Racket
Police identified the accused as Bhanwar Ram (46) and his 22-year-old son Ashok Kumar, both originally from Rajasthan. According to investigators, the father–son duo had been operating an illegal food adulteration business from multiple locations.
Authorities recovered the following items during the raids:
- More than 5,000 litres of adulterated cooking oil
- Over 5,000 kg of wheat flour
- Weighing machines and packaging equipment
- Large quantities of packing materials and labels
The total value of the seized goods is estimated at around ₹21 lakh.
Expired Oil Mixed with Soybean Oil
Preliminary investigations revealed a shocking method used by the accused. Police said the suspects allegedly collected expired cooking oil from various brands and mixed it with soybean oil to increase the volume.
After mixing, the adulterated oil was repacked and sold in the market under different brand labels, misleading consumers and posing serious health risks.
Expired Wheat Flour Rebranded
Officials also discovered that expired wheat flour sourced from multiple companies was repackaged and relabelled under the brand name “Jasnath Gold Chakki Atta.” The products were then distributed for sale in local markets.
Such practices violate food safety regulations and can lead to severe health hazards if contaminated or degraded food products reach consumers.
Food Safety Testing and Further Investigation
According to officials from the Gachibowli Police, Food Safety Department inspectors will collect samples of the seized cooking oil and wheat flour. These samples will be sent to laboratories for detailed testing.
Based on the lab results, authorities will formally register charges and proceed with further legal action against the accused.
Rising Concern Over Food Adulteration
This incident highlights the continuing problem of food adulteration and relabeling of expired products, which threatens consumer safety and undermines food quality standards. Authorities have urged consumers and retailers to remain vigilant and report suspicious products in the market.
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