Food Safety Dept probes use of 'Stone Powder' in making Patashas, appeals to public to remain cautious
Ferozepur, November 11, 2026: The Food Safety Department has initiated an investigation into the use of a mineral powder, reportedly being used in the manufacturing of patashas (traditional sugar candies), following the recovery of a bag containing the substance during an inspection.
The matter has raised concerns over food safety, as patashas are widely consumed by people and are also distributed as prasad at temples, gurdwaras and mosques.
During the investigation, officials found a bag bearing the label ‘TALC’ and the name ‘Udaipur Mineral Development Syndicate Private Limited’. Talc is a mineral substance whose suitability and quality for food use need to be established through proper testing.
According to the information gathered by the department, the powder is reportedly used during the preparation of 'patashas' to prevent them from sticking to one another after manufacturing. However, its food-grade status and suitability for human consumption have yet to be established.
The department has also come across information suggesting that similar mineral powder is used to facilitate the smooth movement of strikers on carrom boards. Officials are also examining whether such powder is being used in barbershops after haircuts, particularly for application around the neck.
The powder is reportedly being sold in 40-kg bags, and the department is collecting information about its supply chain, sale and use in different areas.
Officials have expressed concern that the use of any substance not approved for food applications in patashas or other edible products could pose a potential health risk to consumers. Its chemical composition, purity and food-grade status need to be established through laboratory testing. The final conclusion regarding its safety and permissible use will depend on the laboratory findings.
The Food Safety Department has advised consumers to purchase patashas and other sweets only from reliable and licensed shops. Sweet manufacturers, halwais and other food business operators have been cautioned against using any powder unless its legal approval for food applications and food-grade quality are duly verified. Special care has also been urged in the preparation of food items distributed as prasad at religious places.
The public has been requested to inform the department immediately if they come across any instance of unauthorised substances being used or adulteration in food products.
Abhinav Khosla, Food Safety Officer made it clear that no compromise will be tolerated on public health. Those found using unauthorised or non-permitted substances in food products will face appropriate legal action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Harish Monga
Ferozepur, November 11, 2026: The Food Safety Department has initiated an investigation into the use of a mineral powder, reportedly being used in the manufacturing of patashas (traditional sugar candies), following the recovery of a bag containing the substance during an inspection.
The matter has raised concerns over food safety, as patashas are widely consumed by people and are also distributed as prasad at temples, gurdwaras and mosques.
During the investigation, officials found a bag bearing the label ‘TALC’ and the name ‘Udaipur Mineral Development Syndicate Private Limited’. Talc is a mineral substance whose suitability and quality for food use need to be established through proper testing.
According to the information gathered by the department, the powder is reportedly used during the preparation of 'patashas' to prevent them from sticking to one another after manufacturing. However, its food-grade status and suitability for human consumption have yet to be established.
The department has also come across information suggesting that similar mineral powder is used to facilitate the smooth movement of strikers on carrom boards. Officials are also examining whether such powder is being used in barbershops after haircuts, particularly for application around the neck.
The powder is reportedly being sold in 40-kg bags, and the department is collecting information about its supply chain, sale and use in different areas.
Officials have expressed concern that the use of any substance not approved for food applications in patashas or other edible products could pose a potential health risk to consumers. Its chemical composition, purity and food-grade status need to be established through laboratory testing. The final conclusion regarding its safety and permissible use will depend on the laboratory findings.
The Food Safety Department has advised consumers to purchase patashas and other sweets only from reliable and licensed shops. Sweet manufacturers, halwais and other food business operators have been cautioned against using any powder unless its legal approval for food applications and food-grade quality are duly verified. Special care has also been urged in the preparation of food items distributed as prasad at religious places.
The public has been requested to inform the department immediately if they come across any instance of unauthorised substances being used or adulteration in food products.
Abhinav Khosla, Food Safety Officer made it clear that no compromise will be tolerated on public health. Those found using unauthorised or non-permitted substances in food products will face appropriate legal action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.