Hyderabad, 18 June
H-FAST seizes 825 kg of adulterated paneer from Hyderabad eateries
In a major crackdown on food adulteration, the Hyderabad Food Adulteration Surveillance Team (H-FAST) seized 825 kilograms of adulterated paneer from 45 food establishments and eight manufacturing units across the city during inspections conducted on June 17.
According to officials, the seized paneer was allegedly prepared using synthetic milk, starch, excess water, and non-milk fats, raising serious concerns about public health and food safety standards.
The operation is part of the Telangana government’s ongoing efforts to curb food adulteration and ensure that consumers receive safe and quality food products.
Adulterated Paneer Found During Inspections
Officials said inspections were carried out at multiple food outlets and manufacturing units across Hyderabad following inputs regarding the sale and distribution of substandard dairy products.
During the raids, H-FAST teams discovered large quantities of paneer that allegedly did not meet prescribed food safety standards. Preliminary findings suggested that the product was manufactured using ingredients that compromise both nutritional value and consumer safety.
Authorities seized a total of 825 kg of paneer and initiated further action under relevant food safety regulations. -H-FAST seizes 825 kg of adulterated paneer
Health Concerns Over Adulterated Dairy Products
Food safety experts warn that consuming adulterated dairy products can pose significant health risks, particularly to children, elderly individuals, and people with weakened immune systems.
The use of synthetic milk, excessive starch, non-milk fats, and other unauthorized substances can affect the quality of food and may lead to digestive disorders and other health complications.
Officials stated that samples collected during the raids would be subjected to laboratory analysis to determine the extent of adulteration and identify violations of food safety laws.
Earlier Raid in Secunderabad Led to Massive Seizure
The latest action follows a major enforcement drive conducted on March 18 by the Commissioner’s Task Force, Khairatabad Zone Team, in coordination with Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) Food Safety Officers.
During that operation, authorities seized 3,892 kilograms of dairy products worth approximately Rs 11.11 lakh from premises in Ganj Bazaar, Secunderabad. Six individuals involved in the retail and wholesale distribution of the products were arrested. -H-FAST seizes 825 kg of adulterated paneer
Serious Food Safety Violations Detected
Officials found that several dairy products, including paneer, khoa, white cream, ghee, and kalakand, were being stored under unhygienic conditions.
The products were reportedly kept in open plastic covers, exposing them to dust, insects, flies, and other contaminants. Investigators also found that many items lacked mandatory labelling details such as brand name, manufacturing date, expiry date, batch number, and pest control records.
Authorities described these lapses as serious violations of food safety regulations and consumer protection standards.
Products Sold to Hotels and Catering Services
According to officials, the adulterated dairy products were allegedly marketed as premium-quality items and supplied to hotels, catering services, restaurants, and individual customers.
The products were reportedly sold at around Rs 280 per kilogram, despite failing to meet required quality standards.
Authorities Continue Crackdown
Food safety officials have reiterated their commitment to identifying and taking action against individuals and businesses involved in food adulteration. Regular inspections and surprise raids are being conducted across Hyderabad to protect consumers and maintain food quality standards.
Authorities have urged citizens to purchase dairy products only from trusted and licensed vendors and to report any suspected cases of food adulteration to the concerned departments.