Hyderabad Leads In Food Adulteration Cases: NCRB

Adulteration is a more serious problem than what it looks like to many people. Nothing can be as dangerous as adulterated food for the human body. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) recently revealed alarming data that sheds light on the severity of the issue, especially in the city of Hyderabad and its surrounding areas.

Hyderabad’s Disturbing Lead in Food Adulteration Cases

• The NCRB data pointed out that Hyderabad topped the nation in food adulteration cases in 2022. In close second place was Andhra Pradesh, trailing after Telangana.
• Among 19 major Indian cities, a total of 291 cases of adulterated food were reported, with a staggering 246 cases emerging from Hyderabad alone. This unsettling trend underscores a pressing concern for the city’s food safety.

Local Authorities’ Proactive Stance

• In response to the rising cases, the local police in the three Commissionerates of Hyderabad, Rachakonda, and Cyberabad have taken a proactive stance against food adulteration.
• Noteworthy seizures have been made, involving items such as ice creams, tea powder, and contaminated finger garlic paste. These cases have been diligently registered for additional inquiry by the authorities, emphasizing the seriousness with which they approach the issue.

Health Hazards of Food Adulteration

• Food adulteration is a serious issue that poses significant health hazards to the general public. Consuming contaminated food products can lead to foodborne infections, allergies, and even death.
• However, it is notable that, according to the NCRB data, there were no instances of children being involved in the cases or employed in the adulteration units in the designated locations. This information highlights the need for nationwide enforcement of stringent measures to prevent food adulteration.

Regulatory Response and Future Measures

• Authorities familiar with the situation reveal that India’s food regulator intends to take tough measures against adulteration. Plans include tightening laws and enhancing public awareness, particularly as the percentage of processed food in people’s diets continues to rise.
• Over time, eating patterns have evolved, with the introduction of new food items and additives, along with the use of modern technology in the food industry. To address these challenges, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has initiated surprise inspections nationwide.

Recognizing the evolving nature of the food industry, regulatory criteria need to be updated to effectively curb the issue of food adulteration.

Important Questions Related to Exams

Q: What did the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) reveal about food adulteration in 2022?

A: The NCRB revealed that Hyderabad topped the nation in food adulteration cases in 2022, with Andhra Pradesh closely following as the second-highest.

Q: Which three Commissionerates in Hyderabad have taken a proactive stance against food adulteration?

A: The three Commissionerates in Hyderabad that have taken a proactive stance are Hyderabad, Rachakonda, and Cyberabad.

Q: What is the regulatory response to combat food adulteration in India?

A: India’s food regulator, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), is planning to take tough measures against adulteration, including tightening laws and enhancing public awareness.