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Baba Ramdev Tries Donkey Milk: Reveals Cleopatra’s Secret | WATCH

December 4, 2024, 12:30 pm

He’s been making waves after uploading a video online of him gulping donkey’s milk, touting it to have health benefits. An exponent of Ayurvedic solution to everyday lifestyle problems, Ramdev made this unusual beverage known throughout India and the rest of the world.

Baba Ramdev and his Donkey’s Milk Experiment

In the video, Ramdev is seen milking a donkey before tasting the milk for the first time. “I am trying donkey’s milk for the first time in my life. I’ve also tried milk from camels, cows, sheep, and goats,” Ramdev said. He went on to describe the milk as “very tasty” and “exceptional,” highlighting its benefits for both health and beauty.

Historical References and Health Benefits

Ramdev drew a parallel between donkey milk and its reputed use by Cleopatra, the ancient Egyptian queen. According to historical accounts, Cleopatra bathed in donkey’s milk to maintain her beauty. According to Ramdev, donkey milk acts as a “super tonic” and a “super cosmetic,” offering a range of benefits for skin and health.

WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:

This lungi chhap Baba increasing his power by drinking a donkeys milk pic.twitter.com/I2jjivPwvg

— Sandeep Singh Deol (@SandeepSin23488) December 3, 2024

Moreover, Ramdev claimed that people with cow’s milk allergy can safely consume donkey milk, which can be an alternative for those who have dietary restrictions.

High Cost of Donkey Milk

Though the product is said to have various benefits, donkey milk is very costly compared to cow’s milk, which costs around Rs 65 per liter in India. Donkey milk can range from Rs 5,000 to Rs 7,000 per liter, and it is a luxury product. Though Ramdev may be supporting its benefits, the high price may not reach many.

Donkey Milk in India: Rare But Legal

Even though the milk is rarely used as food in India, the FSSAI reported that there is no concern with regard to safety and toxicity. Still, absence of a law and regulation for this milk with respect to food product; also, the social taboos and the low yield prevent it from becoming commercially available.

Health Considerations and Expert Opinion

Although some studies show benefits to health from donkey milk, the experts advise consulting a doctor before using it in a diet. Because of its rarity and the high price, most do not consider it an alternative.

The latest in Baba Ramdev’s long list of unorthodox health practices is donkey milk. It is too early to say if donkey milk will become popular, but certainly, Ramdev’s endorsement has created an interest in its possible benefits. Whether it becomes a mainstream health trend or remains a niche product will depend on further public reception and regulatory developments.

Baba Ramdev’s viral donkey milk video might seem an outlier in the health and wellness industry, but it has put the spotlight on a rare product with potential health benefits. As Ramdev’s influence grows, donkey milk might see a surge in popularity—though the high cost and social barriers might limit its widespread adoption.

Frog Leg In Samosa Found In Ghaziabad Sweet Shop | Watch

September 12, 2024, 4:31 pm

Food safety in India is facing serious scrutiny following numerous contamination cases reported on social media. An alarming incident has emerged from a sweet shop in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh. A customer discovered a frog leg inside a samosa purchased from Bikaner Sweets. The shopkeeper has been arrested, and an investigation is in progress.

A video circulating online shows the frog leg found in the samosa and the shop where it was bought. The video also depicts customers approaching the receptionist with the contaminated samosa, and one person can be heard calling the police helpline, 100.

Watch:

गाजियाबाद, UP में समोसे के अंदर मेंढक की टांग निकली है। मामला बीकानेर स्वीट्स का है। पुलिस ने दुकानदार को कस्टडी में लिया। फूड विभाग ने सैंपल जांच को भेजे। pic.twitter.com/SBcsEs8nMr

— Sachin Gupta (@SachinGuptaUP) September 12, 2024

Reactions to the video have been mixed, with many expressing concern:

“The incident of finding frog legs in samosas at Bikaner Sweets in Ghaziabad is extremely worrying. Strict action should be taken against such incidents to ensure food safety,” stated one individual.

Another commented, “The situation is very bad; people do not maintain cleanliness.”

A third person added, “Many similar cases have occurred before; action should be taken.”

A fourth remarked, “No one preparing or serving food at these shops wears shower caps, and everyone has very long nails. Health and hygiene are absolutely zero. Homemade food is the best.”

FSSAI’s A1-A2 Milk Ban Revoked: Authorities Seek More Stakeholder Input

August 27, 2024, 5:20 am

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has retracted its recent order that sought to prohibit food businesses from marketing and selling milk and milk products under the A1 and A2 classification. This decision was made on August 26, 2024, following concerns and feedback from stakeholders.

Initially, the FSSAI’s directive aimed to curb what it considered misleading claims related to the A1 and A2 milk types. These distinctions are based on the type of beta-casein protein present in milk. The FSSAI’s earlier order emphasized that current milk standards, as outlined in the Food Safety and Standards Regulations 2011, did not recognize the differentiation between A1 and A2 types.

However, the directive has been withdrawn to allow for further consultation with industry stakeholders. The FSSAI’s revised stance comes amid concerns from milk producers and industry operators that the initial decision might have been premature and could negatively impact the market for indigenous milk producers.

The updated FSSAI order stated: “Clarification regarding selling or marketing of milk and milk products such as ghee, butter, curd etc. in the name of A1 & A2 types… This is to inform that the advisory dated 21.08.2024 issued with respect to the subject cited, stands withdrawn for further consultation and engagement with the stakeholders.”

The withdrawal of the advisory reflects the regulator’s intention to engage more thoroughly with stakeholders to address their concerns before implementing any new restrictions.

FSSAI Finds Nearly 500 Indian Spices Unsafe; Global Sales Impacted

August 20, 2024, 4:22 pm

Indian authorities have revealed that nearly 500 spice samples, or about 12%, have failed to meet quality and safety standards in recent tests. This comes after several countries, including Hong Kong, suspended the sale of certain spice blends due to contamination concerns.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) conducted inspections and testing of various spice brands after Hong Kong halted the sale of popular products like Madras Curry Powder, Sambar Masala, and Fish Curry Masala from MDH and Everest brands in April. The decision was prompted by the discovery of dangerously high levels of pesticides in these products.

Data obtained by Reuters through India’s Right to Information Act shows that out of 4,054 samples tested between May and early July, 474 did not meet the required safety and quality parameters. Although FSSAI did not disclose the specific brands that failed the tests, it stated that necessary actions are being taken against the companies involved. “Action on non-conforming samples has been taken as stipulated,” an official from FSSAI told Reuters, referencing the legal penalties under Indian law without providing further details.

India’s domestic spice market is substantial, valued at approximately $10.44 billion, according to Zion Market Research. The country also recorded spice exports worth $4.46 billion in the fiscal year ending in March.

Global Impact: MDH and Everest Spices Banned

Following Hong Kong’s action, several other countries, including the United Kingdom, New Zealand, the United States, and Australia, have tightened controls on spice imports from India. These nations are now investigating potential contamination issues with the brands in question.

Health Risks and Pesticide Concerns

One of the primary concerns in the contamination scandal is the presence of Ethylene oxide, a sweet-smelling, colorless gas commonly used as a pesticide. While it was initially reported that Ethylene oxide was found in high concentrations in the spices, FSSAI’s tests, conducted across 28 accredited laboratories, found no traces of the gas in the samples.

Ethylene oxide is known for its effectiveness in killing viruses, bacteria, spores, and fungi by disrupting their cell membranes. However, it poses significant health risks, including respiratory irritation, lung damage, and chronic exposure can lead to cancers like lymphoma, breast cancer, and leukemia. The gas is banned for use in food products in most countries, including India. Experts suggest that Ethylene oxide might have contaminated the spice mixes either through its application on crops or as a cheap sterilization agent used during processing.

The controversy over contaminated spices highlights the need for stringent safety measures in the spice industry to protect consumers and maintain the integrity of one of India’s most valuable export markets.

FSSAI Introduces New Labeling Rules: Bold Letters & Bigger Fonts For Nutritional Info

July 6, 2024, 10:12 pm

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has approved changes to nutritional information labeling on packaged food items during its 44th meeting, chaired by Apurva Chandra. The proposed amendments to the Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations, 2020, will require total salt, sugar, and saturated fat content to be displayed in bold letters and larger font sizes on food labels.

In an official statement, FSSAI said it has approved “a proposal to display nutritional information regarding total sugar, salt, and saturated fat in bold letters and relatively increased font size on labels of packaged food items.” The draft notification for these changes will be available for public comments and suggestions.

According to the amendments, the per-serve percentage contribution to Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for total sugar, total saturated fat, and sodium content will be highlighted in bold letters. Regulation 2 (v) and 5(3) of the FSS (Labelling and Display) Regulation, 2020, specify the requirements for mentioning serving size and nutritional information on food product labels.

“The amendment aims to empower consumers to better understand the nutritional value of the product they are consuming and make healthier decisions,” the regulator was quoted as saying by news agency ANI. “Along with empowering consumers to make healthier choices, the amendment would also contribute towards efforts to combat the rise of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and promote public health and well-being,” the statement said.

Clear and distinguishable labeling requirements are a priority in the global effort to combat NCDs. FSSAI has been issuing advisories to prevent false and misleading claims, such as removing the term ‘Health Drink’ from e-commerce websites, as it is not defined or standardized under the FSS Act 2006 or its rules and regulations. The regulator has also directed Food Business Operators (FBOs) to remove claims of ‘100% fruit juices’ from labels and advertisements of reconstituted fruit juices and to refrain from using the terms wheat flour or refined wheat flour.

FSSAI Cracks Down On Misleading Claims In Protein Supplements Amid Safety Concerns

June 30, 2024, 6:17 pm

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is intensifying its crackdown on protein supplement powders and shakes that lack medical certification or feature misleading claims, according to the Economic Times.

This initiative follows an FSSAI study revealing widespread false and deceptive claims associated with protein powders and supplements available across retail stores, e-commerce platforms, and gymnasiums. The report suggests that many of these products could face bans for failing to meet regulatory standards.

Current state of protein powders

In response to the rising popularity of fitness, protein supplements, often priced between ₹2,000 and ₹6,800 for 2-3 kg jars on platforms like Healthkart and Amazon, have become prevalent, as reported by the Economic Times.

The severity of the situation with protein powders

According to a study published in the journal Medicine, which analyzed 36 popular protein supplements in India, nearly 70% of them provided inaccurate protein content information. Some brands were found to offer only half of the claimed protein content. Moreover, approximately 14% of the supplements contained harmful fungal aflatoxins, and 8% showed traces of pesticide residue, The Print reported, citing the study.

The authors of the study, clinical researchers at Rajagiri Hospital in Kerala and a US-based technology entrepreneur, highlighted concerns about the poor quality of many Indian-made herbal protein-based supplements, noting their potential inclusion of liver-toxic botanicals. They emphasized the need for stricter scrutiny, regulation, and basic safety studies before these products are marketed.

Shocking Reveal!! Bacteria & Yeast Found In Shawarma, Says FSSAI

June 30, 2024, 12:16 am

In a bid to crack a major whip against the use of synthetic and artificial colours in food, the Food Safety and Standards Authority (FSSAI) department, targeted hotels and restaurants that serve shawarma dishes to customers on Saturday.

As FSSAI has received dozens of complaints from Karnataka, alleging utilization of unhygienic practices in shawarma preparation.

Acting on these complaints, FSSAI has collected shawarma samples from 10 districts of the state including hotels located in Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and Bengaluru Urban limits.

After analysing the samples, the shawarma was of poor quality. As per FSSAI department, out of 17 samples collected from 10 districts, only 9 were clean.

Issuing a statement, they revealed, ‘In 8 samples we found bacteria and yeast traces that could affect the health of the citizens. Based on the lab reports, we have initiated action against such hotels and restaurants where Shawarma was of poor quality.’

According to FSSAI, these bacteria and Yeast were born due to lack of cleanliness during preparation and long storage of meat.

In order to safeguard people’s health, they have asked all restaurants and hotels to register their license under FSSAI act and also asked them to prepare fresh food on daily basis. They also requested people to buy their shawarma from FSSAI registered eateries only.

This Is What Experts Suggest, If Next Time, You Find Your Food Contaminated–Check Here

June 20, 2024, 5:26 pm

As this disaster week for foodies is about to come to an end, where a Mumbai man finds a human finger in his ice cream, if humans aren’t enough, the Noida woman finds a dead centipede.

If all of this isn’t bizarre, finding a dead mouse in chocolate syrup bottle can make your testbuds more sour.

But this is what experts suggest, if next time you find an unwanted element or contaminant in your food.

Here are the following steps which you can take, to safeguard yourself as a consumer.

Record the Evidence

If you encounter any of such incidents, first, record or document the evidence thoroughly.

This involves taking a good photograph or video of the contaminated food, if necessary, also conserve the packaging of the product along with its content.

In addition, collect the relevant details like order number, date of purchase and from which platform, it was bought.

“The photos or the videos should include the dates of manufacturing, expiry, and the batch number of the product, says Asim Sanyal to India Today.

2. Complain To FSSAI

You can also register your complaint with the manufacturer, concerned e-commerce platform and retailer for the same.

As per the CEO of NGO Consumer Voice Asim Sanyal, the consumer should register their complaint related to food adulteration with FSSAI, as a statutory body and local district consumer forums come under the purview of local safety departments.

‘In India, the mandated authorities to look into complaints of food adulteration and contamination lies with “the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), a statutory body, and the local district consumer forums under the food safety departments of the respective states’ says Sanyal to IndiaToday.In

Accordingly, these bodies might initate action against manufactures and retailers who go against food safety norms and hygiene.

But if you want to approach somebody near, contact the nearest nodal officer of food safety.

3. Don’t Call the Police Unless it poses danger To Your Life

After registering the complaint, don’t approach the police unless it is life threatening.

In the case of life-threatening incident, the aggrieved consumer can register the complaint and bring the copy of complaint given to food safety body.

4. Use Social Media

As witnessed in these above-mentioned cases, consumer can also utilize social media to highlight their problem.

But Sanyal cautions, that one should have valid evidence to proceed with the case.

5. Keep Your Eyes & Ears Open

But most important of all, keep your eyes and ears open. Before opening the product, always check the packaging and keep a look for the signs of any tampering.

Always, make sure that product is genuine not counterfeit.

And lastly, check the manufacturer’s logo, batch numbers, and the date of manufacturing and expiry of the label.

Passenger Finds Dead Cockroach In Vande Bharat Meal

June 20, 2024, 2:23 pm

While traveling from Bhopal to Agra on a Vande Bharat Express train, a couple was shocked to discover a dead cockroach in their meal. The disturbing image of the insect found in the curry was shared on social media by their nephew, Vidit Varshney.

The viral photo clearly shows the cockroach submerged in the potato curry. Varshney expressed his dismay, stating, “Today on 18-06-24, my Uncle and Aunt found a ‘COCKROACH’ in their food served by @IRCTCofficial on Vande Bharat. Please take immediate action against the vendor to ensure such incidents are not repeated.”

See Here:

Today on 18-06-24 my Uncle and Aunt were travelling from Bhopal to Agra in Vande Bharat.
They got “COCKROACH” in their food from @IRCTCofficial. Please take strict action against the vendor and make sure this would not happen again @RailMinIndia @ AshwiniVaishnaw @RailwaySe pic.twitter.com/Gicaw99I17

— Vidit Varshney (@ViditVarshney1) June 18, 2024

Vande Bharat’s Response:

In response to the viral post, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) took action by imposing a penalty on the service provider. Expressing regret in a social media post, IRCTC stated, “We apologize for the travel experience. The matter has been taken seriously, and appropriate penalties have been applied to the service provider. We have also enhanced monitoring of production and logistics.”

Today on 18-06-24 my Uncle and Aunt were travelling from Bhopal to Agra in Vande Bharat.
They got “COCKROACH” in their food from @IRCTCofficial. Please take strict action against the vendor and make sure this would not happen again @RailMinIndia @ AshwiniVaishnaw @RailwaySe pic.twitter.com/Gicaw99I17

— Vidit Varshney (@ViditVarshney1) June 18, 2024

However, the incident raised concerns about hygiene standards on Indian trains, with many social media users tagging Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, demanding an explanation.

In reaction to Varshney’s post, a user expressed, “This is serious problem as the most premium Train of India Vande Bharat Having these issues. Seriously disappointed.” Another user commented, “Why government is not serious about public health.”

A similar incident occurred last year when a passenger on a Vande Bharat Express train found a cockroach stuck to one of the rotis served while traveling from Bhopal to Gwalior. The IRCTC had imposed a fine on the vendor in that instance as well.

Viral: Dead Mouse Found Inside Hershey’s Syrup

June 19, 2024, 12:09 pm

A few days after a Mumbai-based doctor discovered a human finger in an ice cream cone ordered online, a video has surfaced showing a family finding a dead mouse in a bottle of Hershey’s chocolate syrup purchased from the quick-commerce company Zepto. The video also reveals hair coming out of the bottle.

Prami Sridhar shared the video on Instagram, stating that three family members had consumed the contaminated syrup before realizing there was an issue. One of them had to undergo a medical examination. “We ordered Hershey chocolate syrup from Zepto, to eat with brownie cakes, we started by pouring with cakes. caught small hair continuously. decided to open. The opening was sealed and intact. we opened and poured into disposable glass a thick and hard consistency of death (dead) rat dropped down. by washing in running water for reconfirmation. It’s a death (dead) rat,” she wrote on Instagram, accompanying the video.

Watch The Viral Video:

The viral video shows the family emptying the bottle into a cup. As the video progresses, they notice something unusual in the chocolate syrup. To investigate further, they run it under tap water, discovering it is a dead mouse.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Prami Sridhar (@pramisridhar)

Following the video going viral, Hershey’s responded, saying, “Hi there, we are very sorry to see this. Please send us the UPC and manufacturing code from the bottle to [email protected] with the reference number 11082163 so one of our team members can assist you!”

In her post, Sridhar mentioned that the family tried to file a complaint with the company––without specifying if it was Zepto or Hershey’s––but received no response. She also noted that a girl who consumed the syrup fainted and had to be taken to a hospital but is now “alright.”

Sridhar concluded her post by advising people to check products before giving them to children. “This is extremely concerning and unacceptable. We worried about the health risks and the lack of quality control,” she wrote, demanding a “full investigation” and “assurance that this will not happen again.”

In other news, a Bengaluru couple received a cobra with their Amazon package. The viral video showed the snake wriggling as it was stuck to the black tape.

After Flesh Found In Ice Cream, FSSAI Halts Fortune Dairy Operations

June 16, 2024, 10:03 am

Days after a Mumbai resident discovered what appeared to be a piece of flesh, possibly from a human finger, in an ice cream cone, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) inspected the premises of Fortune Dairy Industries in Indapur taluka, Pune, and halted the facility’s operations.

On Wednesday, 26-year-old Mumbai doctor Brandon Ferrao lodged a complaint with Malad police station after finding flesh with a nail in a Yummo’s butterscotch ice cream, a product of Walko QSR Company Pvt Ltd, which he had ordered through the delivery app Zepto.

The Fortune Dairy Industries facility appeared deserted after operations were ordered to cease early Saturday morning following an FSSAI inspection that began on Friday.

An officer from Indapur police station, which covers the area where Fortune Dairy Industries is located, stated, “We are aware of the ongoing investigation by the Malad police. As of now, we do not have any reports or information about any person having sustained an injury or having lost any finger in our jurisdiction.”

A staff member at Fortune Dairy Industries, speaking anonymously, said, “Our company has a manufacturing license from the central agency FSSAI since we supply to entities across India. On Friday afternoon, a team from the FSSAI arrived at the facility and, citing the FIR registered at Malad police station, conducted an inspection and a panchnama of our unit. The inspection continued until early Saturday morning, after which they ordered the facility’s operations to stop.” Attempts to contact Fortune Dairy Industries officials were unsuccessful.

The production unit is located about 130 kilometers from Pune city in the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) industrial cluster in the Loni Deokar area of Indapur taluka, Pune district. Mumbai police had earlier stated they were investigating the supply chain from the delivery executive to the third-party manufacturer.

Walko QSR Company Pvt Ltd released a statement on Saturday, saying, “We, Walko QSR Company Private Limited, hereby confirm & declare that the Batch Number 107E24 for Alphonso Mango Cone (110ml) and Batch Number I11E24 for Butterscotch Cone (110ml) are manufactured by Fortune Dairy Industries Private Limited at its plant located at Plot Number C-55, MIDC Indapur, Maharashtra, Pune-413106.”

The inspection was conducted by the Mumbai-based Western Regional unit of FSSAI. On Saturday afternoon, a team from Mumbai police visited Fortune Dairy Industries as part of the investigation.

A staff member at the facility noted, “Fortune Dairy Industries started the manufacturing unit in April-May 2020. The company receives between one to two lakh liters of milk every day from producers in Pune, Solapur, and other nearby districts. The main products of the company are butter and SMP (skimmed milk powders). We started manufacturing ice cream for other vendors only in 2023, which constitutes about five percent of our total business. For Walko company ice creams, we get the raw materials—cream, SMPs, and other ingredients—from Walko, who also holds the proprietary secret recipe. Two officers from Walko are stationed at our facility to monitor the manufacturing process.”

The staff member added, “There are around 50 skilled workers, and 150-160 unskilled workers employed at the facility along with a dozen supervisors and managerial staff. All these people and hundreds of milk suppliers whose milk we purchase every day are now facing uncertainty due to this action by authorities. I have heard that our company officials are talking to other large-scale milk purchasers, asking them to buy milk from our suppliers so their milk is not wasted.”

Meanwhile, officials from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in Pune said that after the Mumbai incident came to light, their team visited an ice cream manufacturing facility in Hadapsar, Pune, owned by the parent company Walko. “We took some samples of the manufactured product and some more of the raw material for testing as a precautionary measure in the backdrop of the case in Mumbai,” said an FDA officer.

Rajasthan Food Department Finds Pesticides, Insecticides In MDH And Everest Spice Samples

June 14, 2024, 12:01 pm

An official mentioned that because Rajasthan lacks the authority to take direct action against manufacturing units in other states, it has requested FSSAI to intervene.

After some popular spice brands failed safety tests in Rajasthan, the state government has appealed to the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) for guidance and has also requested the governments of Gujarat and Haryana to take action against the brands in question, as their manufacturing units are located in those states.

Shubhra Singh, Additional Chief Secretary of the Medical, Health, and Family Welfare department, stated that a special campaign was launched on May 8 to collect samples from all districts in Rajasthan. A total of 93 samples from various companies, including well-known brands, were collected. The State Central Public Health Laboratory’s report revealed that some samples contained very high levels of pesticides and insecticides.

According to Iqbal Khan, Commissioner of Food Safety and Drug Control, tests found high quantities of pesticides and insecticides in samples from MDH, Everest, Gajanand, Shyam, and Ciba Taaza, which are “very harmful” to health.

Tests revealed that MDH’s Garam Masala contained traces of Acetamiprid, Thiamethoxam, and Imidacloprid, while its Sabzi Masala and Chana Masala had Tricyclazole and Profenofos. Everest Spices’ Jeera Masala contained Azoxystrobin and Thiamethoxam. Shyam spices’ Garam Masala had Acetamiprid, Ciba Taaza’s Raita Masala contained Acetamiprid and Thiamethoxam, and Gajanand spices’ Achaar Masala had Ethion.

Following these results, Medical and Health Minister Gajendra Singh Khimsar instructed officials to launch a special campaign, leading to the seizure of over 12,000 kilograms of unsafe spices on June 8.

Given that MDH spices are manufactured in Haryana and Everest and Gajanand spices in Gujarat, letters have been sent to the Food Safety Commissioners of these states for action. Additionally, a letter was sent to the Chief Executive Officer of FSSAI for further steps.

ACS Singh told The Indian Express that this issue arose after Singapore banned some Indian spices for containing carcinogens, highlighting the public health concern. She explained that the manufacturers claim they do not add these insecticides, asserting that the contamination comes from the soil in which the produce is grown, and “that it is coming from the soil itself, in the produce they are taking. It is not a top up but is intrinsic.”

She emphasized that while the concerns are significant and need addressing as part of a broader issue, “shutting down factories is not on the anvil.”

An official reiterated that since Rajasthan cannot directly act against manufacturing units in the other states, it has asked FSSAI to ensure appropriate measures are taken.

FSSAI Finds Blinkit Warehouse In Telangana Violating Food Safety Standards

June 7, 2024, 12:59 pm

The Food & Safety Standards Association of India (FSSAI) conducted an inspection at a Blinkit warehouse in the state and discovered that the space was “disorganized, unhygienic,” and in violation of several food handling and storage regulations. Further actions are pending.

On June 6, the Commissioner of Food Safety, Telangana, announced on the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) that a task force had inspected the Blinkit warehouse at Devar Yamjal in the Medchal-Malkajgiri district of the state.

Violations Found

The Commissioner noted various violations, including that the premises were “very disorganized, unhygienic, and dusty at storage racks.”

Additionally, there was no Food Safety Training and Certification (FoSTaC) trainee present at the site. The food handlers were not wearing headgear, gloves, or aprons, and did not possess medical fitness certificates.

The team also seized suspected infested whole farm ragi flour and toor dal worth ₹52,000 and sent samples to a lab for testing. The commissioner stated that a notice regarding the investigation would be issued, and further action would be taken accordingly.

Notices to be Issued

The team also discovered that Whole Farm Congruence Trade and Services’ license did not comply with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 (FSS Act), regarding the address mentioned on the label. A notice will be sent regarding this issue.

Additionally, Kamakshi Foods’ license was found to be expired, leading to the seizure of products from the company, including suji, raw peanut butter, maida, poha, besan, and bajra, worth Rs. 30,000.

A Blinkit spokesperson informed the media that they are collaborating with their warehouse partner to address the issues.

“We take safety and hygiene standards very seriously. We are closely working with our warehouse partner and the Food safety department to implement corrective actions from the findings,” the Blinkit spokesperson stated.

ICMR Warns of Misleading Labels on Packaged Foods: ‘Minimal Actual Fruit Pulp, Supplemented with Added Sugar’

June 4, 2024, 2:50 am

Encouraging people to scrutinize food labels thoroughly and make informed choices, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recently cautioned that the information presented on them could be deceptive.

“Health claims on packaged foods are designed to attract consumers’ attention and persuade them that the product is healthy. Despite strict regulations by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the details on labels may be misleading,” stated ICMR.

In its guidelines, ICMR highlighted how food products labeled as sugar-free, often perceived as suitable for diabetics and weight-watchers, could actually contain fats, refined cereals, and hidden sugars, resulting in high glycemic index and calorie content.

Similarly, tags like “no-cholesterol” or “heart-friendly” might mislead consumers, as all plant-based oils are cholesterol-free but still 100% fat, hence should be consumed moderately.

ICMR also debunked the misconception about products claiming to contain real fruit, revealing that they may have only a minimal percentage of actual fruit pulp, supplemented with added sugar and other additives.

According to ICMR’s guidelines, it’s crucial to carefully examine food labels, including ingredients, manufacturing date, expiry dates, allergen information, etc., to make informed dietary choices.

FSSAI Warns Against Processing or Selling of Human Milk

May 26, 2024, 12:56 am

India’s top food safety body, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), issued a directive on Friday, May 24, instructing all states to refrain from granting licenses for the sale or processing of human milk. The advisory came in response to requests from various registered societies to initiate the commercialization of human milk. FSSAI sternly warned that any activities related to the commercialization of human milk and its products must cease immediately, with violations subject to punitive measures under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and associated regulations.

According to FSSAI guidelines, the sale or commercialization of human milk is strictly prohibited. It should solely be utilized for feeding newborns or infants in healthcare facilities.

In recent years, concerns have arisen due to the emergence of companies in the market processing human milk for sale. Some of these entities obtained valid FSSAI licenses ostensibly for selling dairy products, only to be discovered later selling powdered human milk sourced from economically disadvantaged women. The Breastfeeding Promotion Network of India (BPNI) has long advocated for government action against such companies, which may exploit women for profit.

Dr. Arun Gupta, BPNI’s central coordinator, emphasized the need for Indian authorities to address the issue in court. He cited the example of Neolacta, a Bengaluru-based subsidiary of a UK company, whose license for commercializing human milk was eventually revoked by FSSAI after a prolonged period. Dr. Gupta urged the Ministry of Ayush to present their response to the Karnataka High Court utilizing FSSAI’s advisory, asserting that market forces should never dictate the commercialization of human milk or human nutrition in general.

FSSAI Alerts Fruit Traders Against Calcium Carbide Effects; Are Mangoes Safe to Eat?

May 20, 2024, 11:22 am

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), the central regulatory body for food, issued a fresh cautionary notice to traders regarding the use of calcium carbide for artificially ripening mangoes, highlighting significant health hazards.

FSSAI has urged fruit traders, handlers, and Food Business Operators (FBOs) utilizing ripening chambers to strictly adhere to the ban on using calcium carbide, particularly during the mango season.

What are the harmful effects of calcium carbide?

Calcium carbide, employed for fruit ripening like mangoes, emits acetylene gas containing detrimental traces of arsenic and phosphorus. Referred to as ‘Masala’, these substances can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, excessive thirst, irritation, weakness, swallowing difficulties, vomiting, and skin ulcers. Acetylene gas poses risks to handlers, while residues of arsenic and phosphorus may persist on fruits.

“No person shall sell or offer or expose for sale or have in his premises for the purpose of sale under any description, fruits which have been artificially ripened by use of acetylene gas, commonly known as carbide gas,” states the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011.

Which ripening agent is permissible?

FSSAI approves the use of ethylene gas as a safer alternative for fruit ripening. Ethylene gas, up to concentrations of 100 ppm, acts as a natural hormone regulating ripening. It initiates the natural ripening process until the fruit generates ethylene in significant quantities.

Moreover, the Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIB & RC) have sanctioned Ethephon 39 per cent SL for the uniform ripening of mangoes and other fruits.

How can mangoes ripened with calcium carbide be identified?

Purchase from Reliable Sources: Procure fruits and vegetables from trusted vendors, reputed stores, or dealers who assert that their produce is not ripened using harmful or banned chemicals.
Thorough Washing: Before consumption, thoroughly wash fruits with potable running water to eliminate potential surface contaminants.
Avoid Black Spots: Refrain from selecting fruits with black spots on the skin, as they are likely ripened using acetylene gas from calcium carbide.
Check Texture: Exercise caution with mangoes and other fruits exhibiting uniformly colored textures, as it may indicate potential chemical ripening.
Odor and Shelf Life: Be mindful that adulterated fruits might emit a slightly strong odor and have a shorter shelf life, often indicative of calcium carbide usage for ripening.

SC Issues Notice To Centre And FSSAI Over Concerns Of Pesticide Overuse In Food Items

May 18, 2024, 5:15 pm

The Supreme Court has issued notices to the Centre and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) in response to a plea expressing concern about the excessive use of pesticides and chemical insecticides on food crops and food products. The bench, comprising Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud and Justices JB Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, has also directed notices to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and the Ministry of Agriculture.

This development comes as the court was hearing a petition filed by environmentalist and lawyer Akash Vashishtha. The petition highlighted that the widespread consumption of pesticide-laden foods is a major contributor to the increasing incidence of cancers and other serious illnesses nationwide. It specifically pointed out the use and overuse of pesticides, chemical insecticides, artificial colorings, coatings, and waxings on pulses, food grains, and other food items as significant concerns leading to a high number of deaths in the country.

During the hearing, senior advocate Anitha Shenoy, representing the petitioner, informed the court about the extensive data collected nationwide, revealing a significant number of deaths attributed to pesticide exposure. Shenoy also emphasized the failure of the FSSAI in controlling pesticide usage and ensuring food safety, highlighting a direct link between pesticides and the rising cancer cases in India.

FSSAI Denies Reports On Elevated Pesticide Residue Levels In Herbs And Spices

May 5, 2024, 4:46 pm

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) denied media reports alleging that it permitted elevated levels of pesticide residues in herbs and spices.

Describing the reports as “false and malicious”, the food safety authority, in a press release, emphasized that India maintains some of the strictest standards for Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) globally. It further clarified that MRLs for pesticides are determined individually for various food items following thorough risk assessments.

In India, the regulation of pesticides falls under the purview of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoA and FW) through the Central Insecticide Board and Registration Committee (CIB and RC), established under the Insecticide Act of 1968. The CIB and RC oversee the manufacturing, importation, transportation, and storage of pesticides, and consequently, the registration, prohibition, or restriction of pesticides is determined.

FSSAI stated that its Scientific Panel on Pesticides Residues evaluates data provided by the Central Insecticide Board and Registration Committee (CIB and RC) and proposes Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) following risk assessments, taking into account the dietary habits of the Indian population and health considerations across all age groups. According to FSSAI, there are over 295 pesticides registered by the CIB and RC in India, with 139 of them approved for use in spices. Additionally, Codex has adopted a total of 243 pesticides, with 75 of them applicable for spices.

Pesticides are registered for various food commodities with distinct Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs), determined based on risk assessment data. For example, Monocrotophos is permitted for use on multiple crops with varying MRLs: Rice at 0.03 mg/kg, Citrus fruits at 0.2 mg/kg, Coffee beans at 0.1 mg/kg, Cardamom at 0.5 mg/kg, and Chilli at 0.2 mg/kg.

The MRL of 0.01 mg/kg applied to pesticides without fixed MRLs, but this was raised to 0.1 mg/kg exclusively for spices and only for pesticides not registered by CIB and RC in India. Certain pesticides are utilized across over 10 crops with differing MRLs. For instance, Flubendiamide is employed in Brinjal with an MRL of 0.1, while for Bengal Gram, Cabbage, and Tomato, the MRLs are 1.0 mg/kg, 4 mg/kg, and 2 mg/kg respectively. In Tea, the MRL for Flubendiamide is 50 mg/kg. Similarly, Monocrotophos, used in food grains, has MRLs of 0.03 mg/kg, 0.2 mg/kg for citrus fruits, 2 mg/kg for dried chilli, and 0.5 mg/kg for Cardamom.

“The MRLs are dynamic in nature and regularly revised based on the scientific data. This practice is aligned with global standards and ensures that MRL revisions are made on a scientifically valid basis, reflecting the latest findings and international norms,” FSSAI said.

FDA Collects Food Samples from McDonald’s, Theobroma in Noida Following Consumer Complaints

April 29, 2024, 11:01 pm

Officials from the Food Safety and Drug Administration Department (FDA) gathered samples from a McDonald’s outlet in Noida Sector 18 and Theobroma bakery in Sector 104 in response to a consumer complaint alleging food-related illness. The complaint was filed via the Food Safety Connect portal of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).

At the McDonald’s outlet, a customer reportedly fell ill after consuming a burger and french fries. FDA teams promptly visited the respective establishments to collect samples, including palm oil, cheese, mayonnaise, and cake, following the complaints.

Archana Dheeran, Assistant Commissioner (Food) FDA, Gautam Buddh Nagar, confirmed the actions taken and stated that if the laboratory report confirms any product failure, appropriate measures will be taken, including potential legal action. The report is expected within a month.

FSSAI to Check Quality of Spices in India Amid Row

April 23, 2024, 12:16 am

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has initiated sampling of powdered spices from various brands, including MDH and Everest, nationwide, following quality concerns raised by Singapore and Hong Kong authorities, according to a government source. FSSAI aims to verify compliance with its standards amidst ongoing scrutiny.

While FSSAI doesn’t oversee the quality of exported spices, it routinely samples domestic market products to ensure adherence to regulations. Concurrently, the Spices Board of India is investigating the ban imposed by Hong Kong and Singapore on certain Indian spice-mix products, alleged to contain excessive levels of the pesticide ‘ethylene oxide.’ Efforts to reach the companies for comment were unsuccessful.

Hong Kong’s Center for Food Safety and Singapore’s Food Agency have issued advisories against purchasing or selling these products, which include MDH’s Madras Curry Powder, Everest Fish Curry Masala, MDH Sambhar Masala Mixed Masala Powder, and MDH Curry Powder Mixed Masala Powder.

FSSAI Probes Nestle Over Alleged Sugar Addition to Baby Food Products in India

April 18, 2024, 3:31 pm

The central government has acknowledged the accusations against Nestle, a multinational food company, regarding the addition of sugar to infant food products in India. Public Eye, a Swiss investigative organization, conducted an inquiry revealing that Nestle’s baby food product Cerelac contains an average of nearly 3 grams of sugar per serving in India, despite strict guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO) banning added sugars in baby food products. According to government sources cited by ANI, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is examining the report, which will be presented before the scientific panel.

In response to queries from ANI, Nestle stated, “We believe in the nutritional quality of our products for early childhood and prioritize using high-quality ingredients. Over the past 5 years, Nestle India has reduced added sugars by up to 30%, depending on the variant, in our infant cereals portfolio (milk cereal based complementary food). We regularly review our portfolio and continue to innovate and reformulate our products to further reduce the level of added sugars without compromising on quality, safety and taste.”

However, the report suggests that Nestle has violated WHO guidelines against adding honey or sugar in baby food products not only in India but also in many Asian, African, and Latin American countries.

The report reveals that out of the 15 Indian Cerelac products tested, laboratory analyses showed that each serving of cereal contained more than 2.7 gm of added sugar. While Nestle’s labeling highlights the nutrients, added sugar is not as transparently displayed.

Furthermore, the investigation finds that Nestle was not adhering to WHO guidelines in poor countries but seemed to favor higher-income countries. “Cerelac wheat-based cereals for six-month-old babies sold by Nestle in Germany and the United Kingdom have no added sugar, while the same product contains over 5 gm per serving in Ethiopia and 6 gm in Thailand,” the study noted.

A recent WHO study revealed that over 11 per cent of Indians are diabetic, and 35.5 per cent suffer from hypertension. The study warns that obesity has reached “epidemic proportions” in low- and middle-income countries and is accelerating the rise of cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes.

The investigation examined 115 Nestle products across markets in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, revealing that 108 of them contained added sugar.

Centre’s Order: Bournvita To Be Removed From ‘Health Drinks’ Category

April 13, 2024, 3:17 pm

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has issued a directive to e-commerce companies, instructing them to remove all drinks and beverages, including Bournvita, from the category of ‘health drinks’ on their platforms.

In a notification dated April 10, the ministry stated, “National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), a statutory body constituted under Section (3) of the Commission of Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005 after its inquiry under Section 14 of CRPC Act 2005 concluded that there is no ‘health drink’ defined under FSS Act 2006, rules and regulations submitted by FSSAI and Mondelez India Food Pvt Ltd.”

This advisory follows an investigation by the NCPCR, which revealed that Bournvita contains sugar levels significantly exceeding acceptable limits.

Earlier, the NCPCR had urged the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to take action against companies that failed to comply with safety standards and guidelines, and were marketing power supplements as ‘health drinks’.

It is worth noting that according to the regulatory body, ‘health drink’ is not defined in the country’s food laws, and categorizing a product as such violates regulations. Earlier this month, the FSSAI also instructed e-commerce platforms to refrain from labeling dairy-based or malt-based beverages as ‘health drinks’.

The controversy surrounding the alleged health risks of Bournvita surfaced after a YouTuber criticized the powder supplement in a video, highlighting its excessive sugar, cocoa solids, and harmful colorants, which he claimed could pose serious health risks to children, including cancer.

FSSAI issues draft notification for Indian Nutrition Rating

September 21, 2022, 12:05 pm

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a draught notification seeking comments from experts and the general public on the printing of Indian Nutrition Rating (INR) on food packets as part of a labelling exercise, with healthier foods receiving higher ratings. The move is intended to inform consumers about items high in salt, fat, and sugar, allowing them to make informed purchasing decisions.

Scores are proposed for items based on energy and saturated fat, sugar, sodium, fruit, vegetables, nuts, legumes, millets, dietary fibre, and protein content per 100 gm serving of solid and liquid foods.

“The INR system rates the overall nutritional profile for packaged food by assigning it a rating from ½ star (least healthy) to 5 stars (healthiest). More stars indicate the food product is better positioned to provide for [the] daily human need of nutrients. The logo shall be displayed close in proximity to the name or brand name of the product on [the] front of [the] pack,” says the notification.

Milk, vegetable oil, fat, fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables, meat, eggs, fish, flour, and sweeteners do not require ratings. Manufacturers must apply for appropriate logos for their products online through the FSSAI portal.

The food regulator, FSSAI, has been working on improving food package labelling regulations for the benefit of consumers and has issued notices to restaurants for failing to include the calorie count against food items on menus as required by its latest labelling regulations.

The regulator issued new food packaging and labelling regulations in November 2020, requiring restaurants with central licences or chains of 10 or more eateries to include the calorie count per serving size of the food item on the menu card, boards, and booklets for customers.

AIIMS mess food fails FSSAI quality test : Report

September 6, 2022, 12:08 pm

The food safety standards were not met by four out of the seven samples that the Food Safety Authority of India (FSSAI) collected from the mess at the All Indi Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS).

The samples of chicken curry and chutney failed the test, the official report by FSSAI said.

The AIIMS administration had directed to close the messes in hostel number seven and a cafeteria in hostel number five.

“In view of the observations during a surprise inspection of the various messes by members of the food safety and hygiene committee, the executive members of the user organisations and food safety inspectors, it has been decided to shut down the messes in hostel seven and the cafe in hostel five with effect from the morning of Tuesday, August 30, 2022,” the order read.

Doctors at AIIMS have brought up the issues of infestation in groceries, stale food items and unhygienic conditions in one of the hospital’s hostel messes.

The Resident Doctors’ Association further asserted that despite the FSSAI’s order to close the hotel mess on August 10 following an inspection, the mess reopened with no improvement in the quality of the food.

“This matter is not new. Many doctors have raised the issue of sub-standard food quality in the mess. They have also sent us pictures of cockroaches and pests in their food. We have also raised this matter with the administration but no action was taken. This is a major health hazard, we could not do much during the Covid-19 pandemic because where else would doctors eat,” a member of the AIIMS’ RDA said.

Doctors also said in a meeting of the RDA on July 1 this year, issues of poor food quality, small portions and lack of hygiene were raised.

Dr Jaswant Jangra, president of the AIIMS RDA said, “An order to make immediate arrangements for the interim period has been issued. Messes of hostels nine, five, seven and eight (on the first floor) will be allotted on the nomination basis within the next two to three days,”