Chemical filled synthetic milk destroyed as authorities crack down on dangerous suppliers

Two Thousand Liters of Fake Milk Seized

Authorities in Lahore conducted a major operation in the Thokar area where they intercepted a tanker allegedly supplying counterfeit milk disguised as cow and buffalo milk. Officials confiscated and destroyed approximately 2,000 liters of the adulterated product on the spot.

The tanker, identified as LXK 7964, was stopped early in the morning as it prepared to distribute the fake milk to local vendors. The District General of the Punjab Halal Food Authority, Asim Javed, said that the discovery included powder, chemicals, low quality ghee, and artificial thickening agents.

Hazardous Ingredients Confirmed

On site testing showed that the supplied product failed purity standards. Laboratory analysis confirmed that the mixture contained water, powder, and vegetable ghee in quantities that can severely harm consumers.

Javed urged citizens to report suspicious suppliers and assured that strict action is being taken under the directives of the Chief Minister of Punjab. He added that an international standard milk purity policy is being introduced to curb adulteration and protect public health.

Nationwide Network Dismantled Earlier

The Lahore operation comes days after authorities uncovered a nationwide synthetic milk network in Haripur’s Hattar Industrial Zone. During a late night operation, officials sealed a factory producing large quantities of fake milk and arrested three suspects.

According to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Food Safety and Halal Food Authority, the group was allegedly producing almost 100,000 liters of synthetic milk each day. Chemicals, raw materials, machinery, and several tankers were seized during the raid.

Officials stated that the network had previously operated in Punjab but moved operations to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa after action by the Punjab Food Authority. The district team in Haripur was suspended for negligence, and an FIR was registered against the perpetrators.

What Is Fueling the Spread of Synthetic Milk

The repeated discovery of adulterated milk operations raises serious questions about the enforcement capacity of food safety agencies and the growing profitability of synthetic milk.

Where Are These Networks Operating

These operations have been found in industrial zones, rural outskirts, and now in major urban supply chains. Their mobility across provinces suggests weak coordination between authorities.

Why Do Criminal Groups Target Milk Supplies

Milk is widely consumed daily, making it a high demand commodity. The chance to produce large quantities cheaply through chemicals and fillers creates a strong economic incentive for illegal suppliers.

How Can the Issue Be Addressed

Experts recommend stricter inspections, cross provincial intelligence sharing, and heavy penalties for food fraud. Public awareness and reporting mechanisms, such as the 1223 helpline, are essential for early detection.