Massive Crackdown: Food and Drugs Department Raids 4 Fake Cumin-Fennel Factories in Unjha District, Seizes 5487 kg Worth Rs 1.49L

Yesterday, the Food and Drugs Department conducted raids on four alleged counterfeit cumin and fennel seed factories operating in Unjha and Gandhinagar. During this operation, counterfeit goods weighing 5487 kilograms with an estimated value of ₹1.49 lakh were seized. 

The factories were found to be involved in illicit activities, spreading deception among consumers. The Food Department’s intervention revealed widespread malpractice within these establishments, highlighting the urgent need for stricter enforcement measures to ensure the authenticity and safety of food products. Such crackdowns play a vital role in upholding consumer trust and maintaining the integrity of the food industry.

Joint Raid by Food Departments Uncovers Counterfeit Spice Operations in Unjha

On Thursday, a combined team from the Food and Drugs Departments of Mehsana and Gandhinagar conducted a large-scale raid, targeting various factories suspected of producing counterfeit cumin and fennel seeds across Unjha city and its surroundings. 

The operation swiftly exposed significant quantities of suspicious substances, raising concerns about the authenticity and safety of spices produced in these facilities. The investigative team seized loose batches of cumin and fennel seeds, as well as powdered mixtures, including adulterated products. 

This crackdown underscores the concerted efforts of regulatory authorities to eliminate fraudulent practices in the spice industry and ensure consumer protection. Such decisive actions serve as a deterrent against malpractice and reinforce the commitment to maintaining food safety standards in the region.

Crackdown on the Illicit Trade of Counterfeit Cumin and Fennel Seeds in Unjha

Reports of the thriving illicit trade of counterfeit cumin and fennel seeds near the revered Shani Dev Mandir and Siddhi Vinayak Estate in the bustling area of Highview in Unjha have prompted swift action from the Food Departments of Gandhinagar and Mehsana. 

On Thursday, teams from both departments conducted thorough inspections at various locations, revealing disturbing findings. Among them, four factories were identified as hubs for the production of counterfeit cumin and fennel seeds. 

This discovery sheds light on the nefarious activities that endanger consumer health and integrity in the spice market. Such vigilant measures underscore the commitment of regulatory authorities to combating fraudulent practices and upholding the authenticity and safety of food products for consumers.

Food Department’s Intervention in Four Factories

The Food Department recently took action against illicit activities in four factories involved in the production of counterfeit spices. Among these, Rakesh Talshibhai Patel’s factory located near the Shani Dev Mandir in Unawa, Harshad Khodidas Patel’s warehouse in Shiv Ganga Estate in Unawa, Prakash Shivrambhai Patel’s warehouse in Siddhivinayak Estate in Aithor, and another warehouse belonging to Prakash Shivrambhai Patel in Aithor were scrutinized. 

These locations were found to be hubs for the illicit trade of counterfeit cumin seeds. The crackdown underscores the department’s commitment to ensuring food safety and combating fraudulent practices in the spice industry.

Vigorous Nighttime Enforcement by Gandhi Nagar and Mehsana Food and Drugs Departments

Officials from the Gandhi Nagar and Mehsana Food and Drugs Departments were engaged in operations well into the night. It’s worth noting that Unjha has been witnessing a surge in the illicit production of counterfeit cumin and fennel seeds for quite some time now. 

The crackdown on counterfeit operations often leads to a temporary halt in illegal activities. However, such illicit practices tend to resurface shortly thereafter. This cycle has become a topic of ongoing discussion among the public.

Hazardous Encounter: Discovery of Fake Powder on Roads

Just two days ago, a peculiar discovery was made on the roads—an alarming encounter with fake powder. It was observed that a pile of colored powder was found scattered along the side of the road in Unjha. 

Occasionally, illicit factories engaged in producing counterfeit cumin and fennel seeds are swiftly discovered, but despite crackdowns resulting in several arrests, these operations resurface. Moreover, it was noted that two days prior, duplicate cumin and fennel seeds along with other substances were dumped on the roadside in Dasaj and Unjha. 

Concerns arise regarding the potential harm these items could pose to human health, prompting questions about when decisive action will be taken and when those responsible will be brought to justice, stirring discussion among the populace.