20,000 kg sugar-mixed jaggery, coloured peas seized in Pune food safety department raids

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) unit in Pune has seized 16 tonnes of jaggery, 20 tonnes of sugar intended for adulteration, and 68 kg of fried green peas treated with artificial colours during a series of raids across the region.

FDA officials said sugar is classified as an adulterant in jaggery because it misleads consumers, particularly diabetics who opt for jaggery as a healthier alternative. The total value of the seized jaggery and sugar has been estimated at Rs 17.79 lakh.

“We have conducted multiple raids over the past few days, uncovering tons of adulterated items. In addition to sugar, artificial colours were being added to the jaggery to enhance its appearance. This produce was slated for distribution in Pune and Mumbai,” said Digambar Bhogawade, joint commissioner (food), FDA Pune Division.

Artificially coloured green peas seized

In a separate raid at a store in Narhe, FDA officials seized 68 kg of fried green peas worth Rs 7,480. The snacks had allegedly been treated with artificial green dye to improve their visual appeal.

Health experts warned that the use of such dyes could have long-term adverse effects on the health of both children and adults.

Flour, areca nuts and banned products confiscated

The enforcement drive also extended to Ambegaon taluka, where officials seized 19,886 kg of flour, including maida and besan, valued at Rs 10.49 lakh, on suspicion of adulteration.

In addition, the FDA confiscated 1,898 kg of areca nuts from a warehouse owner for hoarding without a valid licence. Banned gutka and pan masala worth Rs 30,000 were also seized from Khed and Ambegaon talukas.

Action against unlicensed establishments

“We have issued stop-work notices to three establishments for operating without licences and maintaining unhygienic storage conditions,” Bhogawade added. “All collected samples have been sent for laboratory testing, and further legal action will be taken based on the results.”

FDA urges public vigilance

The FDA has appealed to citizens to remain alert and report instances of food adulteration or illegal storage facilities. Complaints can be lodged through the FDA helpline at 1800-222-365.