Hyderabad: Police raided illegal units producing adulterated ginger garlic paste in Hyderabad and arrested two people after seizing a massive stock prepared under unhygienic conditions.
The raids were conducted by Rajendra Nagar Zone Police on March 13 after receiving credible information about illegal manufacturing operations.
Officials targeted two locations in the city. One unit operated at House No. 8-14-12/A near Baba Kanta in Sasthripuram. Another facility functioned at House No. 8-5-62 near the railway track in Udangadda.
During the operation, police discovered that the accused were producing adulterated ginger garlic paste using low-quality raw materials. Investigators said the ingredients were mixed with salt and harmful chemicals to increase thickness and improve colour.
Authorities found that substances such as Titanium Dioxide and Xantham Gum powder were added during processing. Police said these chemicals were used to artificially enhance the appearance and texture of the paste.
Adulterated ginger garlic paste stock and machines seized
Police arrested two people linked to the illegal manufacturing units. The accused were identified as Abdul Aleem, 25, owner of Standard Food Products and a resident of Bahadurpura, and Jasani Dildar Ali, 46, a businessman from Abids.
During the raids, officers seized about 1,800 kilograms of adulterated ginger garlic paste prepared at the facilities.
The enforcement team also confiscated 2 kilograms of Xantham Gum powder and 2 kilograms of Titanium Dioxide. In addition, synthetic food colour identified as Lemon Yellow was recovered from the premises.
Police also seized equipment used for manufacturing and packing the adulterated ginger garlic paste. The items included seven packing machines, three grinding machines, and two weighing machines.
Officials said the chemicals and synthetic colour used during production posed a serious threat to public health.
Mailardevpally Police registered two cases in connection with the raids. The cases were booked under Crime Numbers 232/2026 and 233/2026.
Authorities invoked Sections 318(4) and 274 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita in the case. Police said further investigation was underway to identify the supply chain and distribution network of the adulterated ginger garlic paste.