The Department of Food Technology and Quality Control (DFTQC) recently analysed 904 food samples, out of which 45 samples were discovered to be inedible.

According to Matina Joshi Vaidya, Director General of DFTQC, “These inedible items included staple foods like grains and pulses, essential cooking ingredients like oils and spices, as well as beverages such as tea, coffee, and even processed drinking water.”

The investigation also revealed instances of contaminated and unlabeled water, and 38 cases were filed against water companies.

Among the violations uncovered, the pH levels of water deviated from the acceptable range of 6 to 8, posing potential health risks to consumers.

DFTQC identified deficiencies in milk and dairy products, ranging from insufficient fat content in milk to the presence of coliform bacteria in curd.

Ten cases have been filed against milk and dairy producers.

DFTQC has filed a total of 89 cases within a six-month period against entities responsible for producing and distributing substandard food items.