Expired ice cream seized in Ludhiana- here's how to check purity at home

Time of India

30-05-2025

Recent reports highlight alarming adulteration practices in ice cream manufacturing across India. Raids uncovered unsanitary conditions, expired ingredients, and the use of harmful substances like detergent and phosphoric acid.
When it comes to summer food choices, ice cream always hits the right spot. And with the rise in mercury, the demand for this summer treat always witnesses a sudden spike. This spike also gives rise to the scope of adulteration.
A recent report by Tribune India states that a raid by the Health Department on an ice cream manufacturing unit situated in the industrial area, Hambran, Ludhiana, revealed alarming levels of uncleanliness and unhygienic food preparation practices.
The report states that the working environment of the factory was found to be filthy, cluttered with waste and lacking basic sanitation, raising serious concerns regarding consumer health and safety.
Houseflies and uncovered raw materials were found at the unit, and even some ice-cream flavours were found expired, which were destroyed by the team.
It is also reported that the challan for unhygienic conditions was issued to the ice cream unit. As per the Health Department people should buy ice cream only from the trusted vendors and should check the authenticity with simple tests before eating.
In the month of April a case of ice cream adulteration was reported in Karnataka.
During a raid by the Food Safety and Drug Administration Department (FDA), 97 out of 220 shops were issued notices for failing to maintain proper storage conditions. And many were found using detergent powder in creams to create a creamy texture, and phosphoric acid is being used in cool drinks to enhance fizz. For the unversed, phosphoric acid often leads to weakening of bones.
As per The New Indian Express report, a fine of Rs 38,000 was imposed on the market player for following ill practices.
In several cases, manufacturers were using synthetic milk made from detergent, urea, or starch to cut costs. Instead of natural sugar, harmful additives like saccharin and non-permitted dyes were being used to enhance taste and colour.
It was also found that many manufacturers were using contaminated or non-potable water in ice candies and cool drinks or were adding flavouring agents in quantities far exceeding the permissible limits.
Side effects of consuming detergent powder
It is said that detergent powder is not fit for human consumption. Its consumption can lead to digestive issues including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The string alkaline and acidic ingredients in detergent can cause burns in the throat, esophagus, and stomach.
What is Phosphoric Acid and its side effects
It is a colorless, odorless, and acidic chemical commonly used in food, industrial, and cleaning products.
It is found in soft drinks (especially colas), fertilizers, detergents, and rust removers. Its excessive consumption may increase the risk of kidney stones and kidney disease, especially in people with pre-existing kidney conditions. And it can also lead to osteoporosis and tooth decay.
How to check ice cream adulteration
If the ice cream melts too quickly or has a gritty, icy texture, it might be adulterated. Also, as per Tribune's post, if you squeeze lemon juice on ice cream and it foams, it might contain detergent, indicating adulteration.
Thumb and Embed Images Courtesy: istock
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