Fresh investigations in Nepal have raised serious concerns about milk adulteration and food safety after authorities uncovered the use of harmful additives and counterfeit ingredients in milk supplied to consumers. Recent inspections by the Department of Food Technology and Quality Control (DFTQC) found instances of artificial milk production, chemical adulteration and widespread quality violations across parts of the country’s dairy supply chain.
In one of the most significant cases, officials inspecting a dairy facility in Bhaktapur seized 56 kg of dextrose monohydrate, 9.86 kg of maltodextrin and 30 kg of bakery shortening allegedly being used to manufacture counterfeit milk. Investigators claimed the adulterated milk was being supplied both to the open market and to Nepal’s state-owned Dairy Development Corporation (DDC).
The crackdown continued in June when DDC destroyed 3,020 litres of milk collected through a chilling centre in Panauti after laboratory tests found added sugar, abnormal odour and failure to meet minimum quality standards. Authorities intensified monitoring following complaints about declining milk quality and growing consumer concerns.
Inspections in Butwal revealed that 10 out of 12 milk suppliers were allegedly using chemical adulterants, including soda, to prevent milk from curdling. Samples were also found to contain fat and solids-not-fat (SNF) levels below regulatory requirements. Under Nepalese standards, milk must contain at least 3% fat and 8% SNF, but several samples tested below these thresholds.
Food safety experts warn that adulterants such as caustic soda, detergent powder, urea, hydrogen peroxide and synthetic chemicals can pose serious health risks. According to officials, long-term consumption of contaminated milk may contribute to digestive disorders, kidney damage, liver problems, allergies and other chronic health conditions. Children are considered particularly vulnerable.
The DFTQC reported filing 82 food safety cases during the first nine months of the current fiscal year related to serious irregularities and negligence. Under existing laws, offenders can face up to six months’ imprisonment, fines of up to NPR 300,000, or both.
The issue reflects a broader challenge facing dairy industries globally, where milk adulteration, poor hygiene practices and weak enforcement continue to threaten consumer trust. Recent food safety investigations in India have also highlighted concerns around milk quality, adulteration and contamination, reinforcing the need for stronger traceability, testing and regulatory oversight throughout the dairy value chain. (Punjab Newsline)
Industry experts emphasize that maintaining consumer confidence in dairy products requires robust quality assurance systems, regular laboratory testing and strict enforcement against adulteration. As demand for safe and nutritious dairy products continues to grow, ensuring milk integrity remains one of the sector’s most critical responsibilities.
Source: Dairynews7x7 09 June, 2026 Read full story here
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