Your Everyday Spices Under Scanner: AMC Seizes 2,000 kg in Ahmedabad

The Food Department of the Amdavad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has seized around 2,000 kg of suspected chilli, turmeric and coriander powder from a spice manufacturing unit in the city's Madhupura area and sealed the premises as part of an investigation into suspected food adulteration.

The action was taken during a raid on Jai Mataji Traders, located in the old Madhupura Dhal area, where officials confiscated spice stock valued at approximately ₹12.50 lakh.

Probe Linked To Unsafe Food Sample

According to AMC officials, the operation stemmed from an earlier inspection during which the Food Department collected a gravy sample from Jai Ambe Bhojnalaya.

The Public Health Laboratory subsequently declared the sample "unsafe" for consumption.

Further investigation by the department traced the spices used in the preparation of the gravy to the Kesarinandan Spices brand, manufactured by Jai Mataji Traders and owned by Vikram Kishorebhai Thawani.

Acting on these findings, officials carried out an inspection of the manufacturing unit and seized the stock pending laboratory examination.

Details Of Seized Material

Officials said the seized quantity comprised:

• 1,000 kg of packed spices, including chilli powder, turmeric powder and coriander powder.
• 1,000 kg of loose spices, including chilli powder, turmeric powder and coriander powder.

Samples Sent For Laboratory Testing

A Food Department official said samples of chilli powder, turmeric powder and coriander powder had been collected under provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

The samples have been sent to the Public Health Laboratory for detailed analysis to determine whether the products violate food safety standards.

Trader Nabbed After Two Days of Surveillance

A Food Department official said, "We had collected gravy samples from Jai Ambe Bhojnalaya and sent them to the laboratory for testing. The analysis revealed the presence of a non-permitted colour, which could have serious health implications. As a result, the restaurant was sealed immediately."

The official added that the restaurant owner was asked to disclose the source of the spices used in the preparation of the food and identify the company that supplied them.

"Under questioning, he disclosed all the details. We kept the trader under continuous surveillance for two days before finally apprehending him," the official said.

The detection of 'red coloured oil-soluble non-permitted dye' in the gravy sample is considered an extremely serious public health concern. Such prohibited chemical dyes are generally used for textile colouring and other industrial purposes rather than in food products.

1. Increased Risk of Cancer

These unauthorised oil-soluble colours often contain harmful chemicals such as Sudan dyes or similar compounds. Exposure to these substances can increase the risk of cancer, which is why their use in food products is completely prohibited.

2. Serious Damage to the Liver and Kidneys

The liver and kidneys play a crucial role in filtering harmful substances from the body. Once these chemical dyes enter the bloodstream, they can damage liver and kidney cells during the filtration process, potentially leading to severe illnesses such as liver cirrhosis or kidney failure in the long term.

3. Digestive Disorders and Stomach Problems

Consumption of food containing such chemicals can cause severe stomach irritation, acidity, vomiting, diarrhoea and food poisoning.

4. Allergic Reactions and Respiratory Problems

Many individuals may experience allergic reactions to artificial dyes, including skin irritation, itching and breathing difficulties.

5. Adverse Effects on Children's Health

Regular consumption of food containing such dyes can negatively affect children's physical and mental development. Studies have linked certain artificial colours to problems such as hyperactivity and reduced concentration levels in children.

AMC Warns Of Strict Action

The civic body said strict legal action would be initiated if the products are found to be unsafe or adulterated.

Officials warned that individuals or commercial establishments found compromising public health would face action under the Food Safety and Standards Act and relevant provisions of the Gujarat Provincial Municipal Corporations Act.

The investigation is continuing pending the laboratory results.