Authorities in Bengaluru have busted a large-scale fake Nandini ghee manufacturing racket, raising serious public health and consumer-safety concerns. The illegal operation was allegedly producing counterfeit products using low-grade ingredients and is now under investigation for possible use of animal fat as an adulterant.
The fake ghee was reportedly being packed in containers that closely resembled original Nandini packaging, making it extremely difficult for buyers to differentiate authentic products from counterfeit ones.
How the Fake Ghee Operation Worked
According to preliminary findings, the racket was:
Procuring cheap, non-dairy fats, synthetic flavours and colouring agents
Using duplicate packaging to mimic branded Nandini ghee
Targeting wholesale markets and retail stores to push bulk supply
Distributing products in plastic and tin containers without proper seal markings
Authorities suspect the operation has been active for weeks or months before detection.
Health & Safety Concerns
Experts warn that consuming adulterated ghee, especially one containing animal fat or industrial-grade oils, can pose serious health risks, such as:
Digestive problems
Cholesterol imbalance
Food poisoning
Liver and heart complications
Long-term metabolic damage
Since ghee is widely consumed by families, children, and temples for religious rituals, the issue has triggered local outrage.
Investigation Status
A detailed inquiry is underway to:
Identify the full supply network
Trace ingredient sources
Confirm whether animal fat was used
Test samples in food-safety laboratories
Track sellers and distributors across Karnataka
Officials are expected to question several suspects along with shopkeepers who stocked the counterfeit products.
Consumer Advisory: How to Identify Fake Ghee
Authorities have urged the public to stay cautious and verify products before purchase.
To identify genuine Nandini ghee:
✔ Buy only from reputed and verified retail outlets
✔ Check batch number, FSSAI mark, expiry & MRP label
✔ Verify tamper-proof sealing
✔ Observe texture, natural aroma and consistent colour
✔ Avoid suspicious discounts and loose packaging
Impact on Brand Trust
Nandini, Karnataka’s flagship dairy brand, enjoys strong consumer loyalty.
A counterfeit racket of this scale not only affects public health but also damages brand reputation and undermines cooperative dairy farmers who rely on legitimate sales.
FAQs
Q1. Where was the fake ghee racket found?
In Bengaluru, during a police and food-safety enforcement raid.
Q2. Is the use of animal fat confirmed?
The possibility is under investigation; lab tests are underway.
Q3. What should consumers do if they suspect fake products?
Stop usage immediately and report to local authorities or food-safety helplines.
Q4. Can consuming fake ghee harm health?
Yes, it may cause serious digestive and cardiovascular risks.
Q5. Will stricter checks be implemented?
Authorities are expected to tighten monitoring of dairy supply chains.
Published on : 17th November
Published by : SMITA
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Source Credit: Reported by: Deepak Bopanna/ NDTV