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K'taka FDA takes to task 97 ice cream & cool drink units using detergent powder and phosphoric acid
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Tuesday, 08 April, 2025, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Nandita Vijayasimha, Bengaluru
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Karnataka Food Safety and Drug Administration (FDA) has identified 97 out of 220 local ice cream, ice candy, and cool drink manufacturing units for selling substandard products under unhygienic conditions. These include use of detergent powder and phosphoric acid. The crackdown has led to multiple fines and warnings issued to manufacturers violating food safety regulations.
The use of detergent powder in ice creams and phosphoric acid in soft drinks not only violates food safety standards but also poses significant health risks. Detergent powder contains harmful chemicals that can cause gastrointestinal distress and other health issues if ingested. Phosphoric acid, while used in small amounts in some beverages, can indeed affect bone density if consumed excessively over time.
During a two-day inspection drive early this month, FDA enforcement team unearthed extensive dereliction, issued notices for severe violations and warning letters for improper storage conditions.
The food inspectors also detected that several ice cream manufacturers were using synthetic milk made from detergent, urea or starch to cut costs. Instead of natural sugar, harmful additives like saccharin and non-permitted dyes were being used to enhance taste and colour. Furthermore, many units were found using contaminated or non-potable water in ice candies and cool drinks, posing serious health risks to consumers.
The state regulatory authority imposed a total fine of Rs 38,000 on violators and mandated immediate corrective actions. In addition to penalising ice cream and cool drink manufacturers, the department extended inspections to restaurants, messes, and hotels. Out of 590 establishments, 214 were found lacking proper pest control measures, leading to an additional fine of Rs 1,15,000.
In addition to the use of banned substances, FDA officials noted that many local units were adding flavouring agents in excessive quantities, exceeding the permissible limits. Moreover, these flavours, essences, and colours were often sourced from unregulated suppliers, raising concerns about their safety and compliance with food standards.
These findings indicated high risk to consumers' health and highlighted the urgent need for stricter monitoring and compliance in the food industry, especially for products widely consumed by children. The FDA has urged consumers to be cautious and verify the quality of ice creams and beverages before purchasing them. Officials have also warned manufacturers of stricter penalties for repeat offences and emphasised the importance of following safety guidelines to ensure public health.
Further, the FDA has cautioned the food processing industry in the state that rigorous inspections serve as a wake-up call for food manufacturers to prioritise hygiene and safety over profit. Authorities will continue conducting surprise checks to uphold food quality standards and prevent the sale of harmful products to unsuspecting consumers.
According to a section of food processing companies in the state, who did not want to be named, Karnataka FDA is taking strong action to ensure food safety, which is crucial given the potential health risks associated with substandard products. The use of hazardous substances like detergent powder and phosphoric acid in food products is a serious violation, as these can cause serious health issues if ingested.
This crackdown could have significant implications for local manufacturers. It may push them to improve their hygiene practices and quality control measures, but it could also impact small businesses struggling to meet strict compliance standards, stated the food processing industry.
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