A large-scale fake milk racket operating quietly for nearly five years in north Gujarat has been busted, exposing a disturbing food adulteration network that used detergent powder, urea and industrial chemicals to manufacture synthetic milk and buttermilk for local markets.
The operation came to light after a raid on Shree Satya Dairy Products, a small dairy unit located near Salal village in Prantij taluk of Sabarkantha district. Acting on specific intelligence, the district’s Local Crime Branch conducted a search that led to the seizure of adulterated dairy products and raw materials estimated to be worth around ₹71 lakh.
Investigators said the unit had been producing and distributing spurious milk and buttermilk on a regular basis, targeting rural and semi-urban consumers who rely heavily on unpackaged dairy products. The adulterated supplies were allegedly sold across Sabarkantha and neighbouring Mehsana district, raising concerns over prolonged public exposure to hazardous substances.
Four people have been arrested in connection with the racket — Jitendra Patel, identified as the plant operator, along with employees Sachin Makwana, Karan Parmar, and Ajaysinh Parmar. A juvenile worker involved in the distribution of the products has been detained separately, officials said.
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Chemicals used to mimic colour and protein content
During the raid, teams recovered large quantities of raw chemicals and dairy powders used to manipulate the appearance and perceived nutritional value of the milk. Seized materials included approximately 450 kg of whey powder, 625 kg of skimmed milk powder, and 300 kg of premium SMP powder, which investigators said were mixed with chemicals to enhance colour, thickness and protein readings.
Preliminary findings indicate that detergent powder was used to create froth, while urea and other additives were added to simulate protein content — a practice that poses serious health risks if consumed over long periods.
Food safety experts warn that regular intake of such adulterated milk can lead to gastrointestinal disorders, kidney damage and other long-term health complications, particularly among children and the elderly.
Supply network under scanner
Officials said the unit had managed to evade detection for years by operating on a small scale while supplying multiple local vendors. Investigators are now mapping the supply chain to identify retailers, transporters and possible financiers linked to the operation.
Authorities are also examining how the adulterated products passed through routine checks and whether lapses in enforcement allowed the racket to flourish unnoticed for such a long period. Samples collected from the site have been sent for laboratory analysis, and additional charges are expected based on forensic reports.
Public alert issued
In the wake of the bust, authorities have issued advisories urging consumers to remain cautious while purchasing loose milk and dairy products, particularly from unregistered or unverified sources. Residents have been encouraged to report suspicious products or unusually low-priced milk to local enforcement agencies.
Officials said further arrests could follow as the investigation progresses, with a focus on determining whether similar units are operating in other districts.
The case has once again highlighted the persistent challenge of food adulteration in rural supply chains and the urgent need for tighter monitoring of small dairy units that operate outside formal regulatory frameworks.
With Gujarat being one of the country’s largest milk-producing states, the incident has triggered calls for stricter inspections and more frequent testing to ensure consumer safety and protect the integrity of the dairy sector.
About the author – Rehan Khan is a law student and legal journalist with a keen interest in cybercrime, digital fraud, and emerging technology laws. He writes on the intersection of law, cybersecurity, and online safety, focusing on developments that impact individuals and institutions in India.
