Maharashtra FDA Seizes 1.15 Crore Kg of Contaminated Spices and Oils

In a major enforcement operation, the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has seized an astonishing 1.15 crore kg of fake spices and unlabelled edible oils in a week-long campaign from October 23 to October 29. This extensive crackdown comes just ahead of the Diwali festival, highlighting serious concerns over food safety in the state. The total value of the confiscated goods is estimated at ₹15.72 crore, revealing the extent of contamination in food products available to consumers.

The FDA's operation targeted various processing units, wholesale markets, and repacking warehouses across all seven administrative divisions of Maharashtra. Over the course of the seven days, FDA officials conducted 472 raids, resulting in the confiscation of 96,102.5 quintals (approximately 9.61 million kg) of contaminated spices valued at ₹13.60 crore. Additionally, inspectors seized 19,428 quintals (1.94 million kg) of substandard cooking oil worth ₹2.12 crore. Following these raids, 72 manufacturing units had their operating licenses suspended, and 249 formal notices for improvement were issued to non-compliant establishments.

The investigation revealed alarming practices within the food supply chain, where syndicates were found to be adulterating spices with synthetic dyes and other harmful substances. Ground spices such as chili and turmeric were laced with non-edible colourants and mixed with wood husk and expired materials to enhance weight and appearance. Furthermore, the FDA uncovered repackaging operations that involved taking expired food items, altering batch codes, and repackaging them into new retail packaging, misleading consumers about their freshness.

The implications of these findings are significant for public health, especially during the festive season when foodborne illnesses tend to rise. FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe noted that the agency's proactive measures aim to disrupt these harmful supply chains before contaminated products reach consumers' kitchens. The crackdown is part of a larger initiative that has been ongoing since April 2026, during which the FDA has seized over 4 million kg of fake food products.

Looking ahead, the FDA is expected to continue its rigorous inspections and enforcement actions to ensure food safety. With the festive season approaching, the agency is determined to prevent any further distribution of toxic food items. Consumers are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious food products to authorities as the FDA ramps up its efforts to protect public health.