H-FAST, along with the GHMC Food Safety Department, conducted raids. (Photo: Dynamite News)
Hyderabad: The city witnessed one of its biggest food safety crackdowns after authorities seized nearly 25 tonnes of adulterated spices allegedly mixed with hazardous chemicals. The joint operation, led by H-FAST and the GHMC Food Safety Department, uncovered a network suspected of distributing contaminated spices to multiple parts of the country. Three people have been arrested, and criminal cases have been registered.
H-FAST, along with the GHMC Food Safety Department, conducted raids at 13 spice trading and processing units across Hyderabad. During the searches, officials recovered around 25 tonnes of adulterated spices allegedly mixed with industrial-grade chemical colours and other harmful substances unfit for human consumption.
H-FAST seized 25 tonnes of adulterated spices in Hyderabad.
Authorities suspect the contaminated products were being supplied through an organised distribution network operating across several states.
Police have registered three criminal cases at Mailardevpally and Balapur police stations. Three accused have been arrested in connection with the case.
Officials have invoked Section 110 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), stating that the alleged adulteration endangered human life due to the use of hazardous chemicals in food products.
Authorities seized nearly 25 tonnes of adulterated spices mixed with hazardous chemicals.
According to officials, prolonged consumption of food contaminated with industrial chemicals can pose severe health risks. Exposure to such substances may increase the likelihood of serious illnesses, including certain types of cancer and other long-term health complications.
Officials said H-FAST has seized 246 tonnes of contaminated food products recently.
The crackdown forms part of an intensified drive to protect public health and curb the circulation of unsafe food products.
Officials said H-FAST has seized a total of 246 tonnes of contaminated food products over the past 140 days, making it one of the largest anti-food adulteration drives in Telangana. Authorities said strict action will continue against those involved in manufacturing, storing and distributing adulterated food products.
