One arrested in Hyderabad for adulterating mouth fresheners

Hyderabad: The Commissioner’s Task Force, South West Zone, along with the Food Safety Officer from Circle No.14, GHMC, conducted a raid on a unit manufacturing adulterated mouth fresheners (mukhwas) in Chudi Bazaar, Hyderabad. The operation led to the apprehension of one individual and the seizure of adulterated products and related materials worth Rs. 1,20,000.

The accused, Kamal Kishor Ojha, aged 57, is a manufacturer and supplier based in Chudi Bazaar. Authorities found that he had been adulterating mouth fresheners by adding harmful synthetic colors and unauthorized sweeteners to enhance their appearance and aroma. The products were being supplied to stores and hotels in the twin cities, posing potential health risks to consumers.

The seized items included 12 bags of mouth fresheners (each weighing 25-30 kg), 7 bags of adulterated sugar balls and red color (each weighing 25-30 kg), and several boxes of synthetic food colors such as IDACOL F09 Tartrazine, FD Ponceau 4R, FD Pea Green FCF, and Three Star Raspberry Red Sugar.

The raid was carried out under the supervision of Inspectors of Police S. Bala Swamy and SI S. Sai Kiran, with support from the Food Safety Officer, Circle No.14, GHMC, and their teams. Authorities have highlighted the risks of consuming such unbranded and adulterated products and have urged the public to avoid them.