Mehsana, July 9 (IANS) More than 26 tonnes of fennel seeds suspected of being adulterated with non-edible chemical colouring have been seized near Unjha in Mehsana district, with authorities launching legal action against those involved as part of Gujarat’s ongoing drive against food adulteration.

The seizure, valued at approximately Rs 19.6 lakh, was made by the Flying Squad of the Food and Drugs Control Administration (FDCA) during surprise inspections at Unava village near Unjha, a major fennel trading hub in the state.

According to the Health Department, raids were carried out at two locations, the warehouse of M/s Bhargavkumar Pravinbhai Patel and the premises of M/s Patel Rakeshkumar Talsibhai.

Officials said preliminary investigations indicated that fennel seeds were allegedly being treated with chemical-based non-edible colouring to make them appear greener and more visually appealing.

State Health Minister Praful Pansheriya said the state government was pursuing a policy of “zero tolerance” against food adulteration under the guidance of Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel.

“Playing with citizens’ health will not be tolerated. The Food and Drugs Control Administration has seized more than 26 tonnes of fennel seeds worth Rs 19.6 lakh that were suspected to have been adulterated with chemical colour, and strict legal action has been initiated,” he said.

He said FDCA officers found that the operators at both premises did not possess the mandatory Food Safety Licence required for the manufacture or processing of food products.

During the operation, Food Safety Officers collected three statutory samples of the fennel seeds for laboratory analysis after detecting what they described as “a strong suspicion of the use of non-edible colouring agents”.

The samples have been sent for testing, and further action will be taken based on the laboratory findings.

Pansheriya said the Food and Drugs Department remained on alert to safeguard public health and warned that enforcement measures would continue.

“The Food and Drugs Department is continuously vigilant to protect people’s health. In the coming days, this checking campaign against illegal operators and food adulterators will be intensified and made more stringent,” he said.

The action forms part of a broader state-wide campaign by the FDCA against food adulteration and the sale of unsafe food products.

Gujarat authorities have stepped up inspections and enforcement drives in recent months, particularly targeting products suspected of being altered through the use of unauthorised colours, chemicals or other prohibited substances.

Officials said the investigation into the seizure remains ongoing, while laboratory testing will determine the exact nature of the substances used in the suspected adulteration.

–IANS

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