Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): To ensure the purity of ghee being sold in the market, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has launched a special month-long drive across Madhya Pradesh in July.
As per the directions of FSSAI, food safety officers in every district have been asked to collect five ghee samples each, two from packed (branded) products and three from loose (unbranded) ghee.
These samples will be sent to CES Lab in Bhopal and Choksi Lab in Indore for testing. The quality check will be done using butyro-refractometer technology to detect any mixing of cheap substances like refined oil or palm oil.
Gwalior-Chambal Under Watch for Adulteration
The Gwalior-Chambal region has earned a bad name for adulterated ghee, paneer, and mawa. In districts like Bhind and Morena, adulteration rackets are reportedly active and supply fake products not only within the state but also to nearby states like Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan.
Cases of adulteration rise sharply during festival seasons, which poses a serious health risk to the public. Despite this, a food testing lab promised in Gwalior back in 2019 has still not started.
Gwalior Lab Yet to Start After 6 Years
A food testing lab was planned in Gwalior’s Hurawali area in 2019, but even after six years, it remains non-functional. However, with ₹2.5 crore now approved, officials hope the lab will start soon, so local districts won't have to rely on Bhopal or Indore for testing.
Gwalior’s food safety officer Satish Kumar Sharma said the campaign will continue throughout July. Once the lab reports are ready, FSSAI will take action based on quality standards. Strict legal action will be taken against those found guilty of adulteration.
