Bhubaneswar, Oct 12: In a major crackdown on food adulteration, Badabazar police raided two alleged illegal spice manufacturing units in Berhampur city late Sunday night and seized around 3,000 kg of suspected adulterated turmeric and chilli powder.

During the operation, police also recovered four grinding machines from the premises. Two persons have been detained for questioning in connection with the alleged illegal manufacturing and sale of adulterated spices.

The raids were conducted at two locations — Seventh Lane in Laxmi Nrusingha Nagar and Prahallad Nagar. During the search at the Laxmi Nrusingha Nagar unit, police reportedly found large sacks containing unpackaged turmeric and chilli powder.

According to preliminary findings, the operators allegedly mixed artificial colours and rice bran with the spices to increase their quantity and sell the products in local markets at lower prices. The allegations are being examined as part of the investigation.

Officials also found that the unit was allegedly operating without GST registration. The seized spice packets reportedly carried no brand labels and were being sold without a valid licence.

The seized materials and equipment are expected to form part of the investigation into the alleged food safety violations. The authorities are examining the operations of the units and the possible distribution of the products in local markets.

The crackdown has raised concerns over the sale of unlabelled and potentially unsafe food products. Further investigation is underway to establish the extent of the alleged adulteration and determine the legal action to be taken against those responsible.

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