Sweet Poison: Detergent-Laced Ice Cream & Bone-Weakening Drinks Exposed

An alarming discovery has raised serious concerns about food safety in Karnataka. Recent inspections by the Food Safety and Drug Administration Department flagged 97 out of 220 local ice cream and cool drink manufacturing units for selling substandard products under unhygienic conditions.

Some manufacturers were found using detergent powder in ice cream to create a creamier texture, while phosphoric acid—a chemical known to weaken bones—was detected in cool drinks to enhance fizz. Additionally, synthetic milk made from detergent, urea, and starch was being used as a cost-cutting measures.

Authorities have imposed fines and issued notices to violators, emphasizing the urgency of maintaining hygiene and quality standards in the food industry. This crackdown is part of a broader effort to ensure food safety, especially for children, who are the primary consumers of these products.

It’s unsettling to think about the extent of food adulteration.

The Food Safety and Drug Administration Department has issued notices and fines to these manufacturers for violating food safety standards.

Officials have assured more surprise inspections in the coming months to prevent food adulteration. They’ve also set up dedicated helplines — 1967 — for consumers to report suspicious products, ensuring swift action against violators.

With summer vacations in full swing, children are more likely to consume ice creams and cool drinks—making parental vigilance crucial. Experts recommend checking product labels, avoiding items with unusual taste or texture, and opting for trusted brands over unregulated local vendors.

Authorities are also enhancing laboratory testing capacities to speed up food sample analysis, aiming for stricter enforcement of safety regulations.

If You are in Karnataka, you can report food safety violations in Karnataka through the Public Grievance Redressal System [here]. The Department of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs also provides contact details for consumer complaints [here].