On 3rd October 2025, the Delhi Police’s Crime Branch uncovered a large-scale racket producing adulterated desi ghee in North-East Delhi, seizing 1,625 kilograms of spurious stock and arresting six people. The crackdown comes during the festive season when demand for ghee peaks.
According to officials, three separate raids were conducted in Shiv Vihar, Karawal Nagar, and Old Mustafabad. In Shiv Vihar, police arrested one accused, Safiq, 30, and recovered 520 kg of duplicate ghee. A second raid in the same area led to the arrest of four men, including Yusuf Malik, 50, previously booked for similar offences. His son Mehboob, 22, and two Ghaziabad residents, Shakir and Sharukh, were also held, with 440 kg of stock seized. The third raid in Old Mustafabad resulted in the arrest of Zamaluddin, 40, and the recovery of 665 kg of adulterated ghee.
Police said the accused purchased vanaspati and low-quality refined oils in bulk, heated and mixed them, and then added synthetic colour and chemical-based flavouring to imitate pure desi ghee. The product was packed in 105 tins and pouches resembling reputed brands and supplied to shops and distributors. Each tin cost about ₹1,300–1,400 to produce and was sold in the market for ₹3,500–4,000. Cases have been registered under sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Food Safety and Standards Act.
Ghee, clarified butter made from cow or buffalo milk, holds both nutritional and cultural importance in India. It is a staple in festive cooking, used in sweets, religious rituals, and daily meals. Its preparation requires large amounts of milk, making it costly. Rising demand during Dussehra and Diwali increases its market value, making adulteration a lucrative but harmful business.
The Delhi Police stated that further investigation is underway to identify suppliers and distributors linked to the racket. Officials emphasized that consumer awareness and vigilance are vital in curbing such practices, especially during festivals when food items are purchased in bulk.
Ghee is deeply rooted in Indian traditions. It is used in ayurvedic practices, as a base in medicinal formulations, and in rituals like havan and aarti. In many households, ghee is regarded as a symbol of purity and prosperity, which explains why consumers prioritize it during festivals.
Experts warn that adulterated ghee, containing synthetic agents and low-grade oils, poses serious health risks, including digestive issues, cardiovascular problems, and long-term toxicity.
How to Spot Fake Ghee?
Check for the FSSAI logo and license number on packaging.
Test at home by refrigerating ghee; pure ghee solidifies uniformly, while adulterated ghee separates.
Note the aroma; authentic ghee has a distinct nutty fragrance absent in synthetic substitutes.
If the price is too low compared to market rates, it could be adulterated.
Reporting Suspected Adulteration
Citizens can lodge complaints through the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) helpline: 1800-112-100 or via state food safety departments. Prompt reporting can help authorities act quickly to prevent further circulation of spurious products.
(Rh/MY/NS)
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