Hyderabad authorities have uncovered one of the largest food adulteration operations in recent times, seizing more than 25,300 kilograms of adulterated spices during a joint enforcement drive conducted by the Hyderabad Food Adulteration Surveillance Team (H-FAST) and the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) Food Safety Team.
The operation exposed the illegal use of fabric dyes, synthetic colours, industrial dyes, talcum powder, and other harmful substances to enhance the appearance, weight, and market value of commonly used spices.
Massive Quantity of Adulterated Spices Seized
Officials seized a total of 25,300 kilograms of adulterated spices, including:
- 7,920 kg Ajwain (Carom Seeds)
- 6,700 kg Jeera (Cumin)
- 4,960 kg Mustard Seeds
- 2,350 kg Jeera Dust
- 2,280 kg Shahjeera (Caraway)
- 550 kg Cloves
- 540 kg Fennel Seeds (Saunf)
In addition, authorities recovered 89,150 kilograms of raw materials allegedly used for adulteration.
According to officials, the products were intended for distribution across both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
Harmful Adulteration Methods Exposed
During inspections of 13 business establishments and manufacturing units, officials found several dangerous adulteration practices.
Investigators discovered that:
- Low-quality and rejected mustard seeds were mixed with fabric dye, talcum powder, and oil to improve colour, shine, and weight.
- Cloves and shahjeera were coated with synthetic colours to make them appear fresh and premium.
- Permanent industrial dyes were used on ajwain, shahjeera, and other spices to enhance their appearance.
- Some chemicals used in the process were clearly labelled “Poisonous” and “Non-Edible.”
Officials stated that these practices were aimed at increasing profits while posing serious health risks to consumers.
Police Demonstrate How Adulterated Spices Can Be Identified
During a press conference, Hyderabad Police Commissioner V.C. Sajjanar demonstrated the difference between genuine and adulterated spices.
Adulterated cloves and fennel seeds were placed in transparent glasses of water alongside genuine samples. The water containing the adulterated spices quickly changed colour, highlighting the presence of artificial dyes.
Officials also displayed videos showing how the adulteration process was carried out inside the manufacturing units.
Three Arrested
Police registered three criminal cases in connection with the operation and arrested:
- Rahul Bhati
- Vishal Panwar
- Dulichand Kachhawar
Authorities stated that the accused allegedly learned these adulteration techniques from operators in Indore, Madhya Pradesh.
Violations Under Food Safety Laws
Apart from adulteration, officials also detected:
- Misbranding of food products
- Violations of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006
- Manufacturing and sale of unsafe food products
Samples of the seized spices and adulterating chemicals have been sent to laboratories for detailed analysis.
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