Industrial Dyes, Talcum Powder Found During Spice Adulteration Raids in Hyderabad
Hyderabad: A major crackdown by Hyderabad's Food Adulteration Surveillance Team (H-FAST) has uncovered suspected large-scale spice adulteration across the city, with officials recovering industrial dyes, talcum powder and other prohibited substances allegedly used in the preparation of common kitchen spices.
The coordinated inspections were carried out jointly by H-FAST and Food Safety officials at several spice manufacturing and packaging units following intelligence about the production and sale of adulterated food products.
According to investigators, the raids revealed that some operators were allegedly mixing industrial-grade colouring agents, talcum powder and other non-food substances with chilli, turmeric and coriander powders before repackaging them for sale.
Officials believe the adulterated products were intended to improve colour, increase weight and maximise profits while misleading consumers about the quality of the spices.
Multiple Units Inspected
Authorities searched several premises involved in grinding, mixing and packaging spices. During the operation, officials seized large quantities of suspected adulterated spice powder along with chemicals believed to have been used during production.
Food samples have been collected and sent to accredited laboratories for scientific analysis. The final test results will determine the exact composition of the seized products and whether they violate food safety standards.
Serious Health Concerns
Food safety experts warn that industrial dyes and non-food-grade powders are not meant for human consumption and may pose serious health risks.
Regular consumption of adulterated spices may lead to digestive disorders, allergic reactions, liver complications and other long-term health issues depending on the substances involved. Authorities have advised consumers to purchase spices only from trusted manufacturers and licensed retailers.
Officials also urged people to avoid products with unusually bright colours or suspiciously low prices, as these may indicate possible adulteration.
Legal Action Initiated
The individuals associated with the inspected establishments have been handed over to Food Safety authorities for further proceedings under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
If laboratory tests confirm adulteration, authorities said criminal and regulatory action will be initiated against those responsible. Additional inspections are also expected as investigators trace the distribution network of the suspected products.
Public Asked to Remain Vigilant
Hyderabad Police and food safety officials have appealed to residents to remain alert while purchasing packaged food products.
Consumers are advised to:
- Buy only from licensed shops and reputed brands.
- Check FSSAI licence details, manufacturing dates and expiry labels.
- Report suspicious food products or unhygienic manufacturing practices to food safety authorities.
The latest operation is part of Hyderabad's continuing campaign against food adulteration, which has recently targeted fake paneer, adulterated tea, reused cooking oil and other unsafe food products across the city.
