Surat Municipal Corporation Intensifies Surveillance on Milk Quality

The Surat Municipal Corporation (SMC) has intensified its surveillance on milk quality following the detection of substandard milk samples in the city. According to the SMC's Public Health Laboratory, seven cow milk samples were found lacking in milk fat and solids-not-fat (SNF) levels, which are crucial indicators for assessing milk composition and detecting potential dilution. Additionally, a buffalo milk sample also failed due to similar deficiencies.

This sampling drive was initiated approximately 15 days ago as a response to police raids conducted by the State Monitoring Cell and Special Operations Group. These raids targeted operations suspected of manufacturing counterfeit milk-based products, including paneer and ghee, using non-milk substitutes. As a result, authorities have widened surveillance and testing efforts.

SMC officials have noted that the low levels of fat and SNF typically suggest water adulteration, a practice often used to increase milk volume. However, recent tests did not find any non-milk substances in the liquid milk samples.

In addition to raw milk, an ice-cream sample marketed as Kaju Draksh flavour was also found to contain lower milk fat than the regulatory standards require. This finding points to broader quality control challenges within the dairy industry.

The enforcement drive underscores a regulatory focus on ensuring consumer safety and maintaining the integrity of the dairy value chain. For organized dairy operators, these developments highlight the importance of rigorous quality assurance systems, transparent sourcing, and regular compliance testing.

As urban demand for milk and milk products continues to rise, adhering to food safety norms remains essential for maintaining consumer trust and safeguarding the reputation of the sector.