Surendranagar: The Food and Drug Control Authority (FDCA) conducted a major raid on two establishments in Surendranagar, seizing over 2,700 kg of suspected adulterated ghee and related products valued at more than ₹13 lakh. The crackdown, which took place on June 3, 2025, targeted premises allegedly involved in the production and sale of adulterated food items.

The joint operation by the FDCA Surendranagar and the District Supply Officer focused on M/s Shiv Industries, located at Survey No. 75/21, Chotila Road, Gugaliyana, Thangadh, Surendranagar. During the inspection, Mr. Rajeshbhai Bharatbhai Chavda, the person in charge of the establishment, was present and presented a valid license (No. 10721021000213).

Upon questioning, Mr. Chavda admitted to having ready-made ghee (Shree Bhog brand), loose ghee, butter for ghee production, and refined palmolein oil on site. Given the strong primary suspicion of adulteration in the ghee, the authorities immediately initiated legal proceedings. In the presence of Mr. Rajeshbhai Bharatbhai Chavda, a total of four samples, including ghee and other food items, were collected for testing.

Following the sample collection, the remaining stock of approximately 2,700 kg of ghee, with an estimated value exceeding ₹13 lakh, was seized by the FDCA team in the interest of public health. All four samples have been dispatched to the laboratory for analysis.

Further Investigation at Maheswari Products & Chemicals

The FDCA team also extended their investigation to another establishment linked to the same individual, M/s Maheswari Products & Chemicals, also located in Gugaliyana, Thangadh, Surendranagar (License No. 10721021000040). During this inspection, refined palmolein oil was found on the premises. A sample of this oil was also collected in the presence of Mr. Rajeshbhai Bharatbhai Chavda and sent to the laboratory for examination.

The FDCA has stated that based on the preliminary strong suspicion of adulteration in these food products, further legal action will be taken in accordance with regulations once the analysis reports are received. The raids by the FDCA officials have sent a clear message, causing apprehension among those involved in criminal activities that jeopardize public health through adulteration. DeshGujarat