Maharashtra Minister Zirwal Promises Action Against Fake Paneer, Harmful Energy Drinks
MLC Satyajeet Tambe criticized the FDA for inaction on adulterated food in Maharashtra, highlighting energy drinks 'Sting' and 'Charged' and fake paneer.
Raising the alarm over the rampant sale of adulterated and hazardous food items across Maharashtra, MLC Satyajeet Tambe has once again come down heavily on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its inaction.
Speaking during the ongoing monsoon session of the Legislative Council, Tambe expressed grave concern over products like popular energy drinks 'Sting' and 'Charged', as well as counterfeit 'analogue paneer', which continue to flood markets unchecked, posing a severe health threat—especially to the state's youth.
This is not the first time Tambe has flagged the issue. Last year, he had urged the government to ban the sale of energy drinks within a 500-metre radius of educational institutions to protect school and college students from the ill effects of excessive caffeine and harmful additives. Despite assurances at the time, Tambe said no concrete steps were taken on the ground. He reminded the House that he had even met FDA Minister Narhari Zirwal in January this year to press for strict action, but the department's apparent apathy remains a cause for concern.
In a strongly worded statement, Tambe criticised the FDA's excuses—staff shortages, outdated laboratories, and insufficient vehicles—as reasons for its inability to act effectively. He said, 'These cannot be the pretext for ignoring the health and safety of citizens. Such excuses only highlight the indifferent attitude of the department's officials. We will not tolerate this negligence any longer."
Stressing the need for accountability, Tambe demanded that FDA officers be given clear targets for inspections and legal actions, and that failure to deliver should invite disciplinary proceedings.
Responding to Tambe's pointed allegations, Minister Narhari Zirwal assured the House that the government is fully aware of the issue's seriousness and will ensure prompt and decisive measures to curb the sale of such unsafe products.
Tambe, however, cautioned that mere assurances will not suffice this time. 'We expect visible and firm action against the rampant sale of harmful energy drinks and fake paneer that jeopardise the health of our youth," he said, adding that the state will soon witness whether the FDA keeps its word or not.
First Published:
July 02, 2025, 22:05 IST
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