Synthetic Milk Threat Triggers Tight Dairy Checks in AP
In the wake of the alleged adulterated milk crisis linked to deaths and hospitalisations in Rajamahendravaram, food safety and enforcement agencies in Andhra Pradesh have intensified inspections and surveillance across key dairy production zones of Tirupati and Chittoor districts to guard against synthetic milk and adulteration rackets entering regular supply chains.
Officials say heightened vigilance comes after the Rajamahendravaram incident, where suspected artificial or contaminated milk supplied by an unauthorised vendor raised health safety alarms in the dairy-rich Rayalaseema region — a major source of both household consumption milk and bulk supplies to chilling centres and private dairies. This region also sees significant milk movement across the Andhra Pradesh–Karnataka border, prompting cross-border monitoring cooperation.
A recent field action near Ballagiri (Kuppam border) reportedly uncovered a synthetic milk preparation unit where alleged offenders were blending expired milk powder with palm oil, urea and water to mimic the thickness, fat and colour of genuine milk before circulating it locally — a practice food safety officials say is aimed at boosting illegal profits while deceiving consumers and buyers.
Investigators warn that common adulterants in such fake milk schemes include urea, starch, detergents, maltodextrin and vegetable fats, along with preservatives and neutralisers used to extend shelf life and mask alterations. Authorities also flagged reported misuse of oxytocin injections in cattle to artificially increase milk yield — another potential adulteration concern with health implications.
Medical experts highlight serious health risks from adulterated dairy — ranging from digestive distress in children (vomiting, diarrhoea) to liver and kidney damage in adults — and emphasise the need for rapid testing and public awareness.
Consumers are being advised to look out for warning signs such as unnaturally white or excessively thick milk, changes in taste or smell, and other anomalies. Basic household checks can provide preliminary indications of tampering, and scientific testing facilities (e.g., at the College of Dairy Technology in Tirupati) are being promoted to help detect and deter adulteration.
Source : Dairynews7x7 Feb 25th 2026 Read full story here
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