Safe Sweets and Spices: UP Govt’s Vigilance Drive Boosts Diwali Food Safety Confidence

Uttar Pradesh’s Yogi government has launched a robust, statewide crackdown aimed at eradicating adulterated and unsafe food items during the festive season, ensuring consumer safety amid the Diwali celebrations. The Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) spearheaded the “Deepawali Special Campaign” between October 8 and 17, 2025, conducting 4,621 inspections and 2,085 raids across multiple districts.

The campaign resulted in the seizure of 2,993 quintals of adulterated food products valued at around ₹3.88 crore, including milk, sweets, ghee, paneer, and edible oils—many of which were destroyed on the spot to prevent consumption. Of these, 1,155 quintals, worth approximately ₹1.75 crore, were destroyed immediately after failing safety tests.

Key districts such as Mathura, Lucknow, Unnao, Jhansi, Aligarh, and Hathras saw FIRs lodged and licenses suspended. Authorities targeted large dairies and factories supplying to Delhi NCR, focusing on dismantling organised adulteration networks. In Mathura alone, six dairy licenses were suspended after milk adulteration was detected, and 19,500 kg of adulterated food was destroyed in Aligarh.

Dr. Roshan Jacob, Secretary of the FSDA, emphasized zero tolerance towards players compromising public health during festivals. “Perishable items are seized and destroyed on the spot. We are committed to clean, safe festivities and will not compromise on citizens’ safety,” said Jacob.

Notable Highlights:

Over 4,600 inspections and 2,000+ raids carried out as part of the Diwali crackdown.

Nearly 3,000 quintals of adulterated food seized, valued at ₹3.88 crore.

Immediate destruction of 1,155 quintals of unsafe food worth ₹1.75 crore to prevent consumption.

FIRs registered in Unnao, Mathura, and Lucknow; licenses suspended in Mathura dairies.

Targeted dairy, sweets, ghee, paneer, edible oils, and pickles across multiple districts.

Authorities dismantling organised adulteration rackets that supply major urban centers.

FSDA urges public vigilance and provides a toll-free helpline for reporting adulteration.

Campaign demonstrates state government’s active commitment to consumer health during festive seasons.

The ramped-up enforcement activities reflect proactive governance aimed at safeguarding public health, promoting accountability, and ensuring the authenticity of food products during India’s major festival season.

Sources: Times Now, ABP Live, NDTV, Food Safety and Drug Administration UP, The Statesman