Mumbai: FDA act against outlet for using artificial sweeteners

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) raided a Mulund-based mango juice manufacturing store last week after they received a complaint of artificial sweetener being used. The FDA officials seized mango juice, sugar and food colour worth Rs 8.87 lakh from Vijay Traders, a private company.

They received a complaint about the vendor using artificial sweeteners to prepare the  juice after the FDA started an inspection campaign on seasonal fruits this summer. 

“Samples are collected for chemical testing. Reason for seizing the products is the unhygienic condition and the quality of food ingredients used. The store from which the mango juice, food colour, and sugar were seized, had applied for the license earlier, but it was rejected.” 

They appealed that the citizens should avoid drinking beverages, juice, and water from street vendors and unhygienic outlets.

He added, “An investigation was carried out after we received a complaint. Action has been taken against the owner and we have ordered him to shut his shop. Strict action will be taken if the samples are found to be adultered.”

While more such inspections are going on in various fruit markets and street juice centers, the FDA officials have so far received only one complaint by the citizen. “We are conducting inspection of various markets,” said Adhav. 

Two months ago, FDA also started an awareness drive among the mango traders and sellers to make them aware of after effects of chemicals used for ripening.

CASE FILE

Food and Drug Administration received a complaint about the vendor using artificial sweeteners to prepare the  juice after the FDA started an inspection campaign on seasonal fruits this summer