Hyderabad Police seize 25 tonnes of adulterated spices in raids

Hyderabad CP Sajjanar announced that H-FAST conducted surprise raids on facilities manufacturing adulterated spices in Hyderabad. Inspections were carried out at 13 spice trading firms following information received from the public. Over 25 tonnes of adulterated spices were seized, and three individuals were arrested in connection with these cases. Three cases have been registered at the Mailardevpally and Balapur police stations. Adulteration was detected in various spices, including carom seeds (ajwain), cumin, cloves, caraway seeds (shahjeera), and mustard seeds.

CP Sajjanar said that the spices were being manufacture by using fabric dyes and synthetic colors. He said that they were using talcum powder and industrial dyes along with rice bran oil. He said that poisonous chemicals are being used to make the spices shiny and they were being dyed to look costly. About 89 tonnes of raw material was seized. He said that they will take strict action against them under the Food Safety Act. He said that samples of the adulterated spices has been sent for the lab tests.

CP Sajjanar said that the adulterated food when consumed may cause damage to liver and kidneys and also lead to complication like cancer, allergy and digestion disorder. He said that they have conducted raids in 659 places since the start of H-FAST 140 days back. He said that 202 FIRs have been filed till then and 246 tonnes of adulterated food items have been seized. He said that the people must immediately inform them in case if they come across any suspect food items.