According to officials, the seized consignment was found to have been treated with auramine, a hazardous dye commonly used in the leather industry. The chemical was allegedly applied to give the chickpeas an unnaturally bright yellow color and glossy appearance, making them more appealing to consumers while posing serious health risks.
The operation came to light during a routine enforcement action, following which samples were examined and the presence of the prohibited substance was confirmed. Police said the adulterated stock was being prepared for commercial distribution despite the chemical’s well-documented toxicity and its strict prohibition in edible products.
Preliminary findings indicate that a local firm, identified as Ma Tara Traders, had already sold 375 sacks of the contaminated chickpeas in the open market before the seizure. Authorities are now working to trace the supply chain and identify where the adulterated product may have been distributed.
Officials stated that a detailed investigation is underway to determine the full extent of the operation and to establish accountability. Legal proceedings are being initiated, and strict action has been assured against those found responsible for endangering public health.
The incident has raised renewed concerns over food safety and regulatory enforcement, highlighting the ongoing challenge of curbing adulteration practices that can have severe consequences for consumers. Authorities have urged vigilance and emphasized that such violations will be met with uncompromising legal measures.
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