Crackdown on Milk Adulteration in Anantapur District + UPSC?.ToString()?? UPSC?.ToString()+" Current Affairs";

Why in the News?
Upa-Lokayukta P. Rajani has ordered a crackdown on milk adulteration in Anantapur district after investigations revealed the widespread use of harmful chemicals like maltodextrin. The directive includes surprise inspections of dairies, milk chilling units, and the establishment of milk purity testing centres to curb the sale of adulterated milk.
Key Takeaways
Adulteration Detected: Maltodextrin, a harmful chemical, is being used to adulterate milk in Anantapur district.
Crackdown Ordered: Upa-Lokayukta has directed food safety officials to conduct surprise inspections and take action under the Food Safety and Standards Act.
Scale of the Issue: Nearly one lakh litres of adulterated milk enter the market daily in the state, involving farmers, dairy owners, and middlemen.
Detection Challenges: Adulterated milk mimics the colour, texture, and taste of real milk, making it difficult to identify.
Action Plan: Officials have been asked to submit a final report by March 24, 2024.
Do You Know?
Maltodextrin: A white powder used as a food additive to mimic the consistency of milk. While it is generally considered safe in small quantities, its misuse in milk adulteration poses health risks.
Food Safety and Standards Act (FSSA): A law in India that regulates food safety and standards, ensuring the sale of safe and wholesome food.
Upa-Lokayukta: A state-level ombudsman responsible for addressing public grievances and ensuring accountability in government departments.
Static Points about Maltodextrin
What is it?: A polysaccharide (carbohydrate) derived from starch, commonly used as a thickener or filler in processed foods.
Uses: Found in products like candies, soft drinks, and instant foods to improve texture and shelf life.
Health Concerns: Excessive consumption can lead to spikes in blood sugar levels and digestive issues.
Regulation: While approved for use in food products, its misuse in milk adulteration is illegal and harmful.
The Road Ahead
The crackdown on milk adulteration in Anantapur highlights the need for stricter enforcement of food safety laws and better monitoring of the dairy supply chain. While the immediate focus is on curbing the use of maltodextrin, long-term solutions such as awareness campaigns, technological interventions for detection, and stricter penalties for offenders are essential to ensure the safety of milk consumers. This initiative by the Upa-Lokayukta is a step toward restoring public trust in dairy products and safeguarding public health.