Every year the onslaught of summer plays a role on the demand-supply dynamics of milk and milk products. Owing to the limited availability of fresh milk or dairy, there are high chances of milk adulteration, say state food safety officers.

To address this issue, state food and drug administrations are embarking on massive drive to check milk adulteration.

The two states that have been first movers in this are Gujarat and Maharashtra.

According to sources, state FDAs of Gujarat and Maharashtra will be collecting random loose and packaged milk samples from across the states. These samples will not only include branded products but also loose milk sold by the unorganised sector. Special checks will be conducted in selected grey areas where food safety officers have tip-offs with regards to milk adulteration.

Data from Euromonitor International has revealed that Amul and Mother Dairy are leaders in the ‘drinking milk products’ space. They are followed by milk players like Nandini, Aavin and Vijaya.

Checks will be conducted on several parameters including fat content, urea content as well as the presence of foreign objects in milk. There will also be special checks for the presence of synthetic milk that could perhaps be available in the state, say sources.

Surveillance of milk collection centres will be conducted to check on parameters like hygiene and procedures.

Surveillance is likely to be conducted in intervals over the next few weeks to keep a check on milk adulteration. Samples will then be sent to testing laboratories and stringent action could be taken depending on the outcome.

Penalties would be decided at a later date and would depend on the severity of the action. It could involve fine or even imprisonment. Several other states are also likely to follow suit in terms of carrying out checks.