The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has uncovered a suspected milk adulteration network operating across parts of Pune and Solapur districts, with investigators tracing the movement of adulterated milk through multiple suppliers and dairy-related establishments.
As part of the investigation, the FDA has found prima facie evidence that adulterated milk was supplied to Indapur Dairy and Milk Products Ltd, commonly known as Sonai Dairy, at Gokhali in Indapur taluka of Pune district.
Officials said milk delivery records and tanker challans helped investigators trace one suspected supply chain from the accused persons through Mahalakshmi Milk and Milk Products and Yogininatha Milk Suppliers before the milk reached Sonai Dairy.
Investigators have also identified another route through which adulterated milk was allegedly prepared and supplied directly to the dairy.
Two cases detected in Solapur
The investigation also uncovered two separate cases in Malshiras taluka of Solapur district.
At Mahalakshmi Milk and Milk Products in Piliv, officials collected a sample that was found to contain detergent. The sample also showed fat and milk solids-not-fat (SNF) levels below the prescribed standards.
Following the findings, authorities destroyed 7,634 litres of milk valued at approximately ₹3.05 lakh.
According to investigators, milk collected at the facility was allegedly being supplied to Sonai Dairy through Yogininatha Milk Suppliers. An FIR has been registered against those allegedly involved in the case, including individuals associated with the dairy operation.
In a separate case at Dailywish Agro Dairy Product Pvt Ltd in Piliv, another 9,096 litres of milk, estimated to be worth ₹3.64 lakh, was destroyed after a sample was declared unsafe for human consumption.
The sample reportedly contained detergent and also showed sub-standard levels of fat and SNF.
Together, the two cases resulted in the destruction of 16,730 litres of milk with an estimated value of around ₹6.69 lakh.
Investigation into wider adulteration network
The latest findings are part of a wider FDA campaign aimed at tracing the entire supply chain involved in suspected milk adulteration.
Investigators are examining not only dairy units but also suppliers of substances allegedly used to manufacture or alter milk, storage facilities, milk collection centers, chilling centers and processing units.
The wider investigation began in Manchar in Pune district, where the FDA and police reportedly uncovered a network suspected of using ingredients including skimmed milk powder, whey powder, edible oil, emulsifiers and detergent to prepare adulterated milk.
Six milk samples collected from Akash Dairy Farm were found to be positive for detergent. Supplementary laboratory reports also detected Nonylphenol Ethoxylate in the samples.
Authorities have so far identified 37 accused persons in connection with the Manchar investigation. Of these, 25 have been arrested and a charge sheet has been filed, while 12 others have been granted anticipatory bail.
The FDA has also issued directions for the suspension of licenses or registrations, or closure of business operations, involving 26 food establishments allegedly connected to the investigation.
Authorities trace suppliers and financial links
Investigators are now attempting to establish the full chain involved in the alleged adulteration process, including suppliers of whey powder, skimmed milk powder, emulsifiers and chemicals.
The probe is also examining establishments and individuals involved in storing these substances, as well as milk collection and chilling centers and other facilities suspected of playing a role in the supply chain.
Officials are examining financial transactions and digital evidence covering the period from 2024 to June 2026. The objective is to identify the movement of money and establish connections between suppliers, intermediaries, dairy operators and other individuals allegedly involved in the network.
The investigation into Sonai Dairy and the associated suppliers is continuing, with authorities examining records to determine the extent of the alleged supply chain and the involvement of different entities.
Increased surveillance across Maharashtra
The FDA has indicated that enforcement action will continue against businesses and individuals found using unauthorised substances to adulterate milk or compromise food safety for financial gain.
Surveillance has also been intensified at milk collection centers, chilling facilities, dairies and processing units across Maharashtra.
Officials are expected to continue collecting samples and examining supply and transportation records as the investigation progresses. Further action will depend on laboratory findings, documentary evidence and the outcome of the ongoing probe.
