Ahead of Diwali, the Delhi Government seized and destroyed 6,700 kilograms of unhygienic and foul-smelling khoya at Mori Gate market on Tuesday. Officials said they collected 44 samples during the drive, and 35 failed preliminary tests.
Chief Minister Rekha Gupta visited the market to oversee the operation, which the Food Safety Department (FSD) conducted to prevent suspected adulterated food products from entering the supply chain, according to a statement. During the drive, the department’s team collected 44 surveillance samples from the market.
These were subjected to preliminary on-the-spot testing through the ‘Food Safety on Wheels’ mobile testing facility, with 35 of the 44 samples failing the preliminary tests. The team also collected two additional samples and sent them to a laboratory for detailed examination.
The preliminary tests at the site also revealed the presence of milk powder, vanaspati, and substances used for binding in the suspected material. Samples have been sent to the laboratory for further investigation into these ingredients.
The FSD has destroyed 10,660 kilograms of khoya during its festive-season crackdown, the statement read. The department destroyed 2,830 kilograms of khoya on September 4, 610 kilograms on September 8 and another 520 kilograms on October 23.
The preliminary tests also indicated the presence of milk powder, vanaspati and binding substances in the suspected material. The FSD said it has initiated further laboratory examination. “Strictest legal action will be taken against those trying to spoil the festive season, regardless of their influence,” the chief minister said.
She said the Government would not compromise on public health and that ensuring access to safe and quality food during the festive season was among its foremost responsibilities. “There will be zero tolerance for any threat to public health,” the chief minister said.
The operation was the department’s fourth drive at the Mori Gate khoya market, the statement said. The chief minister directed officials to continue the crackdown with the same promptness and commitment, it said.