Port Blair, Dec. 4: In its effort to ensure safe, hygienic and wholesome food to the islanders the Food Safety Department conducted surprise inspections of milk vendors selling milk in the city. Twenty Three (23) milk vendors were inspected and samples were also collected for analysis. With the help of instruments like Milkosis and Raptor Reveal Q+ the samples were tested to detect the presence of urea, detergents, shampoo, starch, stabilizers, aflatoxins and veterinary drug residues.  All samples were found free from above mentioned health injurious substances.

Nine milk vendors were found selling substandard and adulterated milk with added water ranging from 30% to 46% and also in violation of the provisions of Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Cases have been registered against all nine milk vendors.

The Commissioner Food Safety, A&N Islands/Dy. Commissioner, South Andaman has directed all milk vendors to refrain from selling of adulterated milk.  General public are also requested to inform the authorities, if any irregularities noticed by them over phone No. 236168 or District Office control room toll free No. 1077.