A recent inspection drive by the Food Safety Department in Kullu has revealed alarming traces of detergent residue in a majority of milk samples tested. Taking the matter seriously, officials have issued a strict warning to local milk vendors to rigorously adhere to cleanliness standards or face severe legal action.
According to Anil Sharma, Assistant Commissioner of Food Safety, Kullu, a departmental team led by Food Safety Officer Khem Singh conducted the special drive at Bhutti Chowk. The team tested approximately 15 milk samples and one paneer (cottage cheese) sample using a mobile food testing lab (MFTL).
Divya Thakur, the food analyst in-charge of the MFTL, ran preliminary tests checking for urea, starch and detergent. While the samples were clear of urea and starch, most showed traces of detergent.
The root cause
Officials noted that, prima facie, the contamination likely occurred because vendors failed to thoroughly rinse their storage containers and cans with clean water after washing them.
Because the primary objective of yesterday’s drive was awareness and monitoring, vendors were given a chance to rectify the issue rather than facing immediate penalties. However, the department warned that future negligence will not be tolerated.
The Food Safety Department has urged all vendors to use suitable dishwashing liquids and rinse containers thoroughly under running water.
Penalties for future violations include — financial fines ranging from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 10 lakh or more and imprisonment (depending on the severity of the offence).
Sharma reiterated the department’s commitment to ensuring safe, high-quality food for consumers, stating that these inspection drives will continue. “Future non-compliance or unsafe food findings will attract strict legal action under Section 59 of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006,” he said.
