FDA Imposes Stringent Regulations on Dairy Industry to Prevent Adulteration

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has enacted a comprehensive compliance order targeting the dairy supply chain to mitigate adulteration concerns. This new regulation mandates stringent surveillance measures from farm to plate, ensuring adherence to milk-fat and solids-not-fat standards, and maintains a non-negotiable cold chain at or below 4°C. These measures apply to milk distribution and all sellers of dairy derivatives like paneer, condensed milk, milk powder, and ice cream.

FDA commissioner Tukaram Mundhe highlighted the regulatory focus on differentiating products, stating that ice cream should be made exclusively from milk or its derivatives, not from vegetable fat. Products containing vegetable fat must be distinctly labeled as 'frozen dessert' or 'frozen confection'. Additionally, the percentage of milk fat, vegetable oil, and vegetable fat used must be declared on labels.

In recent inspections, the FDA discovered that several milk businesses were operating without valid licenses or registrations. Samples from these operations revealed adulteration with substances such as water, urea, detergent, caustic soda, starch, glucose, maltodextrin, neutralisers, hydrogen peroxide, formalin, melamine, and other contaminants. The presence of antibiotic residues and aflatoxin M1, exceeding legally prescribed limits, was also noted.

Commissioner Mundhe underscored the severity of the issue, pointing out that violators could face fines up to Rs 10 lakh or imprisonment. The FDA's proactive measures aim to ensure consumer safety and maintain the integrity of dairy products in the market.