The Uttar Pradesh Food Department uncovered a major irregularity in Kanpur as nearly 100 quintals (around 10,000 kg) of expired dates were confiscated during a raid. With the Ramadan month underway, demand for fruits and dates has surged sharply across markets, prompting a sharp rise in prices.
Acting on confidential inputs, officials conducted a search operation at a warehouse in Naubasta, Kanpur. Large stacks of date cartons were recovered from the premises.
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Warehouse raid in Naubasta area
During inspection, officials found that the expiry dates printed on the cartons mentioned 2022--23. Despite being expired, the dates were allegedly being repacked and relabeled with altered expiry markings. Authorities suspect the stock was intended to be sold in the market during Ramadan.
The seized consignment is estimated to be worth nearly Rs 50 lakh. Samples have been collected and sent to a laboratory for detailed testing. The department stated that strict legal action will be initiated against the warehouse operators based on the lab report.
Crackdown ahead of festive season
In a separate operation on February 21, the Kanpur unit of the Food Safety and Drug Administration confiscated adulterated oil and toxic food colours. These samples have also been sent for laboratory analysis.
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Officials said the intensified enforcement drive is being carried out in view of Ramadan and the upcoming festival of Holi, when food consumption rises significantly. The Uttar Pradesh Food Department has been conducting continuous raids on units suspected of producing adulterated food items, ghee, and edible oil to prevent public health risks during the festive period.
