A major synthetic milk adulteration scam has been uncovered in Bhoom taluka of Dharashiv district, Maharashtra, with authorities suspecting that more than 2.3 crore (23 million) litres of adulterated milk may have entered the state’s food supply over the past six months. The investigation has raised serious public health concerns due to the alleged use of detergent powder, palm oil, and low-quality chemical additives in the production of fake milk.

Investigation Findings

The case came to light following a joint investigation by the Maharashtra Police and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Officials examined sales records seized during the investigation and found that approximately:

• 2,30,470 kilograms of low-quality milk powder were allegedly used to manufacture synthetic milk.
• This quantity was used to produce around 23,04,070 litres of artificial milk, valued at approximately ₹9.21 crore.
• Investigators believe the adulterated milk was mixed with genuine milk at a 10% ratio—adding 10 litres of synthetic milk to every 100 litres of pure milk.
• Based on this mixing ratio, officials estimate that over 2.3 crore litres of adulterated milk may have been distributed across Maharashtra.

Harmful Ingredients Used

According to investigators, the synthetic milk was allegedly prepared using:

• Detergent powder
• Palm oil
• Low-quality chemical powder
• Inferior milk powder

These substances were reportedly added to imitate the appearance, texture, and fat content of genuine milk.

Potential Health Risks

Health experts have warned that prolonged consumption of chemically adulterated milk may lead to serious health complications, including:

• Liver damage
• Kidney damage
• Digestive disorders
• Increased health risks for children, pregnant women, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems

Police Action

Authorities have registered a criminal case against seven individuals under relevant provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act and other applicable laws. At the time of the announcement:

• All seven accused were reported to be absconding.
• A Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by a police inspector has been formed to trace and arrest those involved.
• Officials continue to conduct raids at suspected locations connected to the operation.

During the investigation, authorities seized 61 bags of adulterated milk powder. Preliminary findings indicate that the powder was allegedly supplied to several dairy units in the Bhoom region under the guise of cattle feed.

Ongoing Investigation

Investigators believe multiple milk collection centres may have been involved in the distribution network. Authorities are also working to identify buyers who allegedly purchased large quantities of the adulterated milk.

Bhoom taluka is a major milk-producing region, exporting lakhs of litres of milk daily and producing an estimated 70–80 tonnes of khoya each day, making the investigation particularly significant.

Legal Consequences

Under India’s Food Safety and Standards Act, individuals found guilty of manufacturing or distributing life-threatening adulterated food products may face:

• A fine of up to ₹10 lakh
• Life imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offence

Consumer Advisory

Although no formal consumer recall has been announced, consumers are advised to:

1. Purchase milk only from trusted and licensed brands or dairy suppliers.
2. Avoid milk with unusual smell, taste, or texture.
3. Report any suspected food adulteration to local food safety authorities.
4. Stay informed about official updates as the investigation progresses.

Authorities continue to investigate the full extent of the adulteration network and whether additional products or suppliers may be linked to the case.