India is the largest producer and consumer of milk globally, with its dairy industry being vital to the national economy and the livelihoods of rural communities. Nevertheless, maintaining food safety in this swiftly growing sector presents a considerable challenge. Throughout the stages of production, processing, and distribution, the industry faces various problems that can often jeopardize milk quality and public health. Below are five major food safety challenges faced by India’s dairy sector:
- Adulteration of Milk:
Adulteration continues to be a significant concern within India’s dairy sector. Frequently encountered adulterants consist of water, detergent, starch, urea, and even hazardous chemicals such as formalin. These additives are introduced to enhance volume or prolong shelf life, yet they can lead to severe health issues. According to various reports, a considerable proportion of milk samples in India do not comply with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) standard.
- Poor Hygiene in Production and Handling:
A significant amount of milk in India is being generated by small-scale farmers, many of whom do not have access to sanitary milking facilities, clean water, and adequate storage equipment. The lack of cold chain infrastructure in rural regions further exacerbates bacterial proliferation and spoilage. This situation not only impacts the quality of milk but may also result in the emergence of foodborne illnesses.
- Antibiotic and Hormone Residues:
The inappropriate use of antibiotics and hormonal injections in dairy cattle for the purposes of disease management and enhanced milk yield has resulted in the detection of drug residues in milk. If these residues are not adequately monitored and regulated, they may lead to antibiotic resistance in humans and present long-term health hazards.
- Ineffective Regulation and Monitoring:
Even though FSSAI has established explicit safety standards, the enforcement of these standards is still inadequate. The dairy sector’s fragmented structure, comprising numerous small producers and informal participants, complicates the processes of monitoring and regulation. Consequently, numerous unsafe practices persist without oversight, especially in unregulated markets.
- Lack of Consumer Awareness:
A significant number of consumers in India lack awareness regarding the characteristics of safe milk and the methods to detect adulterated or contaminated products.
Insufficient understanding of pasteurization, appropriate storage practices, and certified sources leads to the ongoing consumption of unsafe dairy products.
Conclusion:
Tackling these challenges necessitates a collaborative approach that includes more rigorous enforcement of food safety regulations, educational initiatives for both farmers and consumers, improved infrastructure, and advancements in technology. Guaranteeing the safety of milk is crucial not only for public health but also for maintaining confidence in one of India’s most important sectors.
