Hyderabad, April 7: Residents in Hyderabad can now spot adulterated food at home using basic household items like iodine and distilled water, thanks to demonstrations at a major food safety exhibition organised by authorities.
The event, backed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), took place at the Konijeti Rosaiah Government Nature Cure Hospital as part of the 99-day Praja Palana — Pragathi Pranalika health week programme. Officials showcased quick tests for common items like milk, spices, cereals, pulses, jaggery, paneer, and chocolates.
Visitors learned to detect artificial colours in turmeric by rubbing it with water—if yellow colour spreads, it’s adulterated. For black pepper, genuine ones sink in water while fakes float. Iodine drops turn milk or paneer blue if starch is added.
Engineer R. Kavitha, who attended, asked about home use. An officer replied, “Iodine from pharmacies works for milk and paneer; distilled water for others. This helps when buying for kids in busy markets.”
Senior citizen Jaya voiced fears over milk adulteration after a recent Andhra Pradesh incident. “Adding iodine spots fakes instantly and prevents kidney issues from bad tea,” she said.
Stalls highlighted risks: cereals with stones or polishers, beverages with synthetic colours or reused leaves, and spices mixed with sawdust. Such adulteration causes digestive problems, poisoning, and long-term health damage.
Health Minister Damodar Rajanarsimha visited, handing certificates to 175 Anganwadi cooks and tasting millet dishes like ice cream and coffee. He praised the initiative for empowering people to check ingredients and colours on labels.
Hyderabad District Collector Harichandana Dasari and Health Commissioner S. Sangeetha Satyanarayana also toured the stalls, stressing vigilance in daily shopping.
This hands-on event equips Hyderabad families with easy tools against food fraud, promoting safer eating habits amid rising adulteration concerns across Telangana.
