A Karnataka FDA food safety inspection has exposed alarming food adulteration practices in Bengaluru. A recent raid by the Karnataka Food Safety and Drug Administration Department (FDA) found some ice creams and cold drinks to have toxic ingredients such as detergent powder and phosphoric acid. These investigations have raised serious health issues, prompting authorities to act swiftly.
Adulteration Of Ice Creams And Cold Drinks
During the inspection of 220 ice cream parlours and beverage shops, officials discovered that 97 shops were selling unhygienic and spurious products. One of the worst discoveries was the inclusion of detergent powder in ice cream. It is being used by businesses to produce a creamy texture, but it is extremely toxic to health and causes nausea, vomiting, internal burns, and damage to the kidneys.
Yet another shocking finding was the use of phosphoric acid in cold beverages. This toxic substance, widely used in fertilisers and rust dissolvers, was found in unsafe quantities. A high intake of phosphoric acid can cause bone weakening, a risk of kidney stones, and the speeding up of tooth decay.
The research also uncovered the use of man-made milk made from starch and urea. This is a cheaper substitute for genuine milk that leads to severe health problems, such as liver and kidney failure, in the long run.
Moreover, officials identified non-approved colours and artificial sweeteners in certain foods. These chemicals can cause digestive diseases and toxicity over a prolonged period of time. In addition, contaminated water in ice candies was found to be a major health hazard since it could be a breeding ground for bacteria, which cause infections and intestinal diseases.
Also Read: Fake Dairy Alert In Hyderabad: How To Identify & Avoid Harmful Milk Substitutes
Restaurants Also Under Scrutiny
The investigation did not end at soft drink and ice cream manufacturers. The FDA also inspected 590 restaurants, hotels, and messes in the city and found that 214 of them were not able to meet the hygiene standards. Most of them were poorly equipped to handle pest control and unsanitary food facilities, which adversely affect public health.
Due to these violations, the FDA ordered food manufacturers to pay a fine of ₹38,000 and restaurants a fine of ₹1,15,000 for their failure to maintain hygiene codes. Officials now call for tougher enforcement and regular inspections to avoid such infractions in the future.
This food safety investigation by the Karnataka FDA is not an isolated incident. Earlier this year, officials flagged carcinogenic chemicals in idlis sold at some Bengaluru eateries. These recurring offences underscore the need for enhanced food safety laws and consumer awareness.
The health agencies urge people to remain vigilant when purchasing food, especially from unbranded or exceptionally cheap sources. Governments are further calling for more stringent checks and prosecution of producers and traders who compromise food safety.
As the investigations progress, it becomes important for companies as well as consumers to stress hygiene and quality. The food safety investigation done by the Karnataka FDA is a reminder that the safety of food must not be considered lightly.
The next time you enjoy a scoop of ice cream or a refreshing drink, ask yourself—do you really know what’s in it?
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva (For Representation)
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