Fake Spice Factory Busted in Berhampur; 3,000 Kg Adulterated Turmeric and Chilli Powder Seized
Berhampur: In a major crackdown against food adulteration, police busted two illegal spice manufacturing units in Berhampur city and seized around 3,000 kilograms of suspected adulterated turmeric and chilli powder.
The operation was carried out by the Badabazar police following intelligence inputs regarding the production and sale of spurious spices in local markets.
Raids were conducted at units located in Laxmi Nrusingha Nagar and Prahallad Nagar, where officials discovered large quantities of turmeric and chilli powder allegedly prepared for distribution.
During the searches, police seized four grinding machines used in the manufacturing process and detained two individuals for questioning.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the operators were allegedly mixing artificial colouring agents and rice bran with spice powders to increase volume and maximise profits.
Authorities also found that the units were allegedly operating without valid registration and lacked proper licenses required for food production and distribution.
The seized products reportedly did not carry any recognised brand labels.
Police have launched a detailed investigation to determine the extent of the operation and trace the distribution network of the suspected adulterated products.
Officials said further legal action will be taken based on the findings of the inquiry.
The crackdown has raised concerns about food safety and consumer health, prompting authorities to intensify inspections of food manufacturing units across the region.
