Hyderabad Sees Rise in Milk Adulteration Cases
HYDERABAD: Milk, a staple consumed daily by children and adults, is increasingly being found adulterated, raising concerns over public health. Recent incidents in Rajamahendravaram triggered alarm, and similar cases continue to surface in Hyderabad.
Authorities have in the past seized adulterated milk, curd and paneer from several units in and around the city. However, residents say enforcement weakens after initial crackdowns, allowing such practices to resume.
Health risks from common adulterants
To increase volume, some suppliers mix water with milk. If the water is contaminated, it can cause infections, particularly among children.
Detergents are reportedly added to create excess froth. Doctors warn that consumption can lead to intestinal problems.
Urea is mixed to enhance whiteness. Medical experts caution that prolonged intake may damage kidneys.
Hydrogen peroxide is allegedly used to delay spoilage, which can cause digestive disorders and intestinal inflammation.
Starch powder or gruel is added to increase thickness. Excess starch can affect the large intestine, doctors said.
Simple home tests to detect adulteration
Experts say adulteration can be detected at home through basic tests.
A drop of pure milk placed on a smooth surface flows slowly, leaving a white trail. Milk mixed with excess water flows quickly without leaving a mark. A lactometer can also be used to test purity.
To check for detergent, shake milk in a bottle. Thick foam may indicate contamination.
For starch, add two to three drops of iodine solution to milk. If it turns blue, starch may have been added.
To detect urea, add a little turmeric and dip red litmus paper. If it turns blue, urea may be present. Crystal-like particles in steam while heating milk may also indicate urea.
Past seizures in Hyderabad region
In earlier cases, officials seized large quantities of adulterated curd and paneer packets from a dairy unit in Patancheru. In Parvathapur, 110 litres of adulterated milk were seized from a manufacturing unit and the owner was arrested.
Another dairy in Patancheru was found storing adulterated milk, paneer and butter. Officials arrested those responsible.
Residents allege that inspections intensify only briefly after such incidents, before returning to routine. They urge sustained vigilance to curb adulteration.
