Detergent & 'Non-Permitted Dyes' In Ice Cream? Karnataka FDA Findings Raise Alarm

In Karnataka, Food Safety officials found that ice creams and cool drinks contained hazardous substances such as detergent powder and phosphoric acid, raising serious health concerns.

The findings have triggered widespread concern over food safety standards in the region with authorities urging stricter enforcement and consumer vigilance.

Source : Pixabay

A shocking food safety investigation by Karnataka's Food Safety and Drug Administration Department (FDA) has uncovered alarming violations in the manufacturing of ice creams and cool drinks in Bengaluru. Officials found that several products contained hazardous substances such as detergent powder and phosphoric acid, raising serious health concerns.

Disturbing Findings From FDA Inspections

During inspections of 220 retail outlets, authorities discovered 97 shops operating in unsanitary conditions with poor storage facilities, reported Times of India. More concerning was the revelation that some manufacturers were using detergent powder in ice creams to create a falsely creamy texture, while phosphoric acid—linked to weakened bones—was added to cool drinks to increase carbonation.

The FDA's two-day operation targeted products frequently consumed by children, exposing widespread adulteration. Investigators also found that some manufacturers were using synthetic milk made from detergent, urea, or starch, along with artificial sweeteners like saccharin and banned coloring agents, as per a report on Economic Times.

Hygiene Violations in Restaurants

In a simultaneous crackdown, officials inspected 590 restaurants, hotels, and messes, identifying 214 establishments that failed to maintain proper pest control measures. The FDA imposed fines of Rs 38,000 on food manufacturers and Rs 1,15,000 on restaurants for violating hygiene regulations, reported The New Indian Express.

Phosphoric acid, though legally permitted in limited amounts in certain processed foods, poses serious health risks when misused. Commonly found in colas and industrial cleaners, excessive consumption can lead to reduced bone density over time.

The findings have triggered widespread concern over food safety standards in the region, with authorities urging stricter enforcement and consumer vigilance. Officials have advised the public to be cautious when purchasing unbranded or unusually cheap food products as investigations continue.

In February this year, the food safety officials flagged that some of the idlis provided in Bengaluru eateries were declared unsafe due to the presence of carcinogenic substances.