When it comes to beating the heat, ice cream remains the ultimate summer indulgence. But as mercury levels soar, so does the demand for this beloved treat, bringing with it a disturbing trend of adulteration and unhygienic manufacturing practices. A recent Tribune India report uncovered a shocking case in Ludhiana, where the Health Department raided an ice cream manufacturing unit in the city’s Hambran industrial area. The factory was found operating under appallingly unhygienic conditions, with cluttered waste, filthy surroundings, houseflies, and uncovered raw materials. Disturbingly, several expired ice cream flavours were also discovered and destroyed on-site.
The Health Department issued a challan to the factory for violating food safety regulations. Officials have since urged consumers to purchase ice cream only from trusted vendors and to verify its quality through simple at-home tests.
This isn’t an isolated case. Back in April, a similar adulteration scandal emerged in Karnataka, where the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FDA) conducted raids across 220 shops. Nearly 97 outlets were issued notices for violating basic storage norms. What’s worse? Several ice creams were found to contain detergent powder, used to mimic a creamy texture and phosphoric acid in cool drinks to increase fizz. For the uninitiated, phosphoric acid has been linked to bone weakening and kidney issues.
According to a report by The New Indian Express, a fine of ₹38,000 was imposed on a key market player for these unethical practices.
In some cases, manufacturers were found to be using synthetic milk, made from harmful substances like detergent, starch, or even urea, to cut costs. Natural sugar was being replaced with non-permitted sweeteners like saccharin and artificial dyes to enhance taste and colour. Even more alarming was the use of non-potable or contaminated water in ice candies and drinks, along with flavouring agents exceeding permissible limits.
Side effects of consuming detergent powder
It is said that detergent powder is not fit for human consumption. Its consumption can lead to digestive issues including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The string alkaline and acidic ingredients in detergent can cause burns in the throat, esophagus, and stomach.
What is Phosphoric Acid and its side effects
It is a colorless, odorless, and acidic chemical commonly used in food, industrial, and cleaning products. It is found in soft drinks (especially colas), fertilizers, detergents, and rust removers. Its excessive consumption may increase the risk of kidney stones and kidney disease, especially in people with pre-existing kidney conditions. And it can also lead to osteoporosis and tooth decay.
How to check ice cream adulteration
If the ice cream melts too quickly or has a gritty, icy texture, it might be adulterated. Also, as per Tribune's post, if you squeeze lemon juice on ice cream and it foams, it might contain detergent, indicating adulteration.
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The Health Department issued a challan to the factory for violating food safety regulations. Officials have since urged consumers to purchase ice cream only from trusted vendors and to verify its quality through simple at-home tests.
This isn’t an isolated case. Back in April, a similar adulteration scandal emerged in Karnataka, where the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FDA) conducted raids across 220 shops. Nearly 97 outlets were issued notices for violating basic storage norms. What’s worse? Several ice creams were found to contain detergent powder, used to mimic a creamy texture and phosphoric acid in cool drinks to increase fizz. For the uninitiated, phosphoric acid has been linked to bone weakening and kidney issues.
According to a report by The New Indian Express, a fine of ₹38,000 was imposed on a key market player for these unethical practices.
In some cases, manufacturers were found to be using synthetic milk, made from harmful substances like detergent, starch, or even urea, to cut costs. Natural sugar was being replaced with non-permitted sweeteners like saccharin and artificial dyes to enhance taste and colour. Even more alarming was the use of non-potable or contaminated water in ice candies and drinks, along with flavouring agents exceeding permissible limits.
Side effects of consuming detergent powder
It is said that detergent powder is not fit for human consumption. Its consumption can lead to digestive issues including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The string alkaline and acidic ingredients in detergent can cause burns in the throat, esophagus, and stomach.
What is Phosphoric Acid and its side effects
It is a colorless, odorless, and acidic chemical commonly used in food, industrial, and cleaning products. It is found in soft drinks (especially colas), fertilizers, detergents, and rust removers. Its excessive consumption may increase the risk of kidney stones and kidney disease, especially in people with pre-existing kidney conditions. And it can also lead to osteoporosis and tooth decay.
How to check ice cream adulteration
If the ice cream melts too quickly or has a gritty, icy texture, it might be adulterated. Also, as per Tribune's post, if you squeeze lemon juice on ice cream and it foams, it might contain detergent, indicating adulteration.
Thumb and Embed Images Courtesy: istock
Can’t eat your food without snapping a picture first?
Join our Food Photography Contest and stand a chance to win exciting prizes!
Click HERE for details.
Join our WhatsApp Food Community to discover delicious recipes, enjoy fascinating food stories, and stay updated with the latest food news! Click here
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