Fake Potatoes Made from Red Soil and Chemicals !

Two truckloads of fake potatoes seized in a raid by the Food Safety Task Force
Six traders abscond

Patliputra (Bihar) – During raids conducted at Mithapur and Meenabazar by the Food Safety Task Force, fake potatoes were seized. These potatoes were being manufactured using red soil and harmful chemicals. Designed to look like real potatoes, these chemically-made fakes pose a serious health threat to consumers.

1. Under the leadership of Food Safety Officer Ajay Kumar, two truckloads of these counterfeit potatoes were seized. During the raid, six traders fled the scene.

2. The seized potatoes have been sent to a laboratory for testing, and efforts are underway to locate and take action against the absconding traders.

3. These potatoes were being brought in daily at 6 am from Chhattisgarh. They were first sold in major wholesale markets and then distributed to various other locations.

4. The fake potatoes were being procured at a rate of Rs 20–25 per kg and sold for Rs 70–75 per kg. According to experts, the chemicals used in these fake potatoes are harmful to the liver and kidneys. Excessive consumption can lead to constipation, swelling, and loss of appetite.

How to Identify Fake Potatoes ?

These potatoes look slightly different from real ones.
They lack the natural aroma of real potatoes and have a strong chemical odour with a shiny, artificial coating.
Fake potatoes spoil within just two days.
Unlike real potatoes, which sink in water, these fake ones float.

Raid on Restaurants Too: Suspected Fake Paneer Under Scrutiny

The task force also inspected food items at Sanvi Collection Café on Boring Road and Skylight Biryani House in Rajabazar. Suspecting the use of fake paneer, samples were collected. Sales of paneer and biryani at these establishments have been temporarily banned. Further action will be taken after laboratory test results are received.