Gujarat fake milk racket busted after nearly five years; detergent, urea used in production

Food safety authorities have busted a fake milk production unit in Gujarat’s Sabarkantha districts for allegedly using detergent powder, urea and other chemicals to make milk and buttermilk.

Four people were reportedly arrested while a juvenile worker was detained for selling them in local markets for nearly five years, putting people’s health at risk, according to The Times of India and local media. Their adulterated dairy products were also supplied to Mehsana district as well.

Those arrested include plant operator Jitendra Patel and employees Sachin Makwana, Karan Parmar, and Ajaysinh Parmar. 

The operation was busted as the Sabarkantha Local Crime Branch (LCB) raided Shree Satya Dairy Products, a local dairy production unit near Salal village in Prantij taluk. They seized contaminated milk, buttermilk and raw chemicals worth around ₹71 lakh. This reportedly includes 450 kg of whey powder, 625 kg of skimmed milk powder, 300 kg of premium SMP powder, among others, that were used to increase the colour and appearance as well as protein content of the milk.

Investigation is underway to identify those responsible for running the operation and to determine how the adulterated products entered the supply chain. Officials also warned consumers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious products to local authorities. 

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