Ludhiana: Nearly one-third of milk and dairy product samples collected in Ludhiana over the past six months have failed food safety tests, raising concerns over food quality in the district.
Dr Amarjeet Kaur, district health officer (DHO), confirmed that 24 out of 82 enforcement samples of milk and milk products collected between September 2024 and February 2025 did not meet quality standards. Of the 228 food samples tested overall, 43 failed, including 19 non-dairy products such as spices, dry fruits, fast food, oil, sugar, jaggery, fruits, and vegetables. Reports for 24 samples are still pending.
Breakdown of failed samples
According to district health authorities, paneer showed the highest rate of failure, with 12 out of 39 samples testing substandard. Ghee also performed poorly, with eight of 21 samples failing. One out of nine milk samples failed, while no lassi samples were found to be substandard.
Enforcement and testing process
The food safety wing of the health department collects samples of dairy products, fast food, cold drinks, spices, oils, ice creams, dry fruits, fruits, and vegetables as part of its crackdown on adulteration. These are sent to the state food safety laboratory in Kharar for testing. Four food safety officers oversee the process in Ludhiana, with one officer deputed from Moga for two days.
Legal action against violators
If a sample fails, the case is presented before the Additional Deputy Commissioner’s (ADC) court, which determines penalties. Vendors found maintaining unhygienic conditions receive on-the-spot challans. In cases where food is deemed unsafe for consumption, the matter is escalated to the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM), who can impose stricter punishments.
Call for stricter monitoring
Residents have welcomed the enforcement drive but are demanding stricter action to curb food adulteration. Amandeep Singh, a local resident, called for increased monitoring of food vendors, grocery stores, and dairy product sellers to ensure public safety.
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