The Odisha government has significantly intensified its efforts to combat food adulteration across the state, collecting approximately Rs 95.91 lakh in penalties from businesses violating food safety regulations.
Health and Family Welfare Minister Mukesh Mahaling shared these details in a written reply to the Odisha Legislative Assembly.
Responding to an inquiry by MLA Souvik Biswal, the Minister noted that regular inspections and extensive sample testing are actively being conducted to safeguard public health. Over the past two years, authorities have lifted a total of 7,392 legal samples and 32,498 surveillance samples across various districts and urban local bodies.
The enforcement drives have led to severe actions against offenders:
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Approximately 427.86 quintals of adulterated food items have been seized and destroyed.
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In Cuttack alone, 71 quintals of adulterated paneer were destroyed, while 275 FIRs were filed against violators in Niali.
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A total of 18 special drives were executed statewide to target paneer and chhena adulteration.
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A total of 431 cases have been registered against offenders, comprising 298 adjudication cases and 133 prosecution cases.
The government maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards food safety violations, reassuring citizens that surveillance and strict inspections will continue across all regions.
