Suspected coolant leak, not milk adulteration, in AP deaths

In a key development, authorities probing the renal failure deaths in Rajamahendravaram have suspected a toxic freezer coolant leak (likely ethylene glycol) as the source of contamination, rather than conventional milk adulterants such as urea or detergents.

Preliminary investigation indicates that milk supplied by a single unauthorised local vendor may have been contaminated due to a leak from a refrigeration/freezer unit used for storage. Health officials have confirmed that no traces of urea were found in initial tests, and samples of milk, equipment, and related materials have been sent to forensic laboratories for detailed toxicological analysis.

The incident has so far resulted in five deaths and multiple hospitalisations due to acute renal failure, with all affected individuals linked to the same milk source. Authorities have sealed the unit and arrested the operator, while final conclusions await forensic lab confirmation.

DairyNews7x7 Insight:
This case points to a localized contamination and equipment failure, not a systemic milk adulteration issue—underscoring the need for stricter enforcement against unauthorised operators and non–food-grade refrigeration practices, rather than generalising risk to the organised dairy sector.

Source : Dairynews7x7 Feb 24th 2026 Read full story here