Maharashtra FDA Uncovers Pune Milk Adulteration Network, Destroys 16,730 Litres
The investigation began under a special campaign against adulteration in milk and dairy products after the FDA received confidential information about the alleged supply and use of substances for producing synthetic or adulterated milk in the Manchar area of Pune district.
On July 4, a joint team from the Maharashtra FDA and the Pune Rural Police’s Local Crime Branch searched M/s Navkar Distributors in Bhoramala, Avasari Khurd, in Ambegaon taluka. Officials seized whey powder, whey permeate powder, detergent, emulsifier and other materials suspected of being used in the process. They also collected samples and stocks carrying names including Sonai, Mlekpol, Prabhat Dairy, Milky Mist, Paras and Govardhan. Police later registered Crime No. 215/2026 at Manchar Police Station.
According to the FDA, questioning of the main accused indicated an alleged method for altering milk’s composition. Skimmed milk powder was reportedly used to increase solids-not-fat, while whey powder was used to raise protein-related components. Investigators said edible oil was allegedly added to increase fat content, with emulsifiers and detergent used to combine the different ingredients.
The inquiry was extended to suppliers and stockists of the suspected substances, as well as milk collection centres, chilling facilities and other businesses involved in the dairy chain. Laboratory testing of an emulsifier sample collected during the investigation found Nonylphenol Ethoxylate. The same chemical was subsequently detected in milk samples taken from another dairy establishment in Manchar.
On July 6, officials inspected M/s Akash Dairy Farm in Manchar, Ambegaon. The facility was allegedly packing and selling milk supplied by M/s Pirsai Milk and Milk Product and other dairies. Six samples were sent for testing. An FDA laboratory report dated September 28 found detergent in all six samples, while a supplementary report identified Alphox-200 Ethoxylate, described in the report as Nonylphenol Ethoxylate, in each sample. The samples also had fat and solids-not-fat levels below the prescribed standards, according to the FDA.
Investigators have since moved further upstream to examine the source and movement of the milk. The FDA said the adulterated product was prima facie linked to M/s Indapur Dairy and Milk Products Ltd, also known as Sonai Dairy, in Gokhali, Indapur. Authorities are examining connections between suppliers of the suspected adulterants and milk collection, chilling and processing facilities. Two additional cases were registered in Malshiras as part of the wider enforcement campaign.
In total, 16,730 litres of milk worth approximately ₹6.69 lakh were destroyed. The Maharashtra FDA said the investigation remains under way and is intended to identify all people and establishments allegedly involved in the network.
