• More than 50 different samples tested by FDA found to be ‘unsafe’ for human consumption 
•  Nearly 570 tonnes of ‘Supari’ worth Rs 14 cr seized in crackdowns in Nagpur last year

 

 

 In one of the largest food safety crackdowns in recent times, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) seized about 5.7 lakh kg (570 tonnes) of ‘supari’ (betel nut) worth approximately Rs 14 crore in Nagpur district during raids carried out between April 1, 2025, and February 28, 2026. More than 50 different samples tested were found to be ‘unsafe’ for human consumption. The massive seizure formed a significant part of a broader enforcement drive that uncovered widespread violations across multiple food categories. Kharra, a widely consumed and highly addictive smokeless tobacco product in Eastern Maharashtra (particularly in Nagpur) has now come under sharper scrutiny. Made using supari as a key ingredient, the findings indicate that consumers may be exposed to compounded health risks due to unsafe raw materials being used in its preparation.

 

According to official figures, the FDA conducted extensive inspections covering essential commodities such as milk, dairy products, edible oils, grains, and processed food items. A total of 1,083 samples were collected during the drive, out of which 739 were found compliant with prescribed food safety standards. However, the alarming number of 71 samples which were marked ‘Unsafe’ raises eyebrows as they constitute mostly of Supari and milk-based products-both in volume and value, while rest are ‘rava’, ‘maida’ among others. In addition to that, 58 samples were declared substandard, while 6 were flagged for misbranding. A number of samples are still under laboratory analysis. In terms of overall seizures, authorities confiscated more than 667 tonnes of food products valued at about Rs 16.3 crore. These included commonly consumed items such as milk products, edible oils, and namkeen, raising concerns about everyday food safety in the district.

 

Speaking on the action, Krishna R Jaipurkar, Joint Commissioner, FDA Nagpur Division, said that, “The department carried out the raids in a thorough and systematic manner to ensure strict enforcement of food safety norms.” He added that similar drives will continue in the future, with the intensity of raids being increased based on the prevailing adulteration situation in the market. Officials indicated that the scale of the supari seizure suggests organised supply chains that may be bypassing regulatory checks. The FDA has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public health and has assured that strict action will be taken against violators, along with sustained monitoring and enforcement across the district.