Bengaluru Police Bust Fake ‘Nandini’ Ghee Racket
In Bengaluru, city police, in collaboration with the vigilance wing of the Karnataka Milk Federation (KMF), have dismantled a major interstate network selling counterfeit ghee under the trusted “Nandini” brand. Four men — including a KMF distributor, his son and two accomplices — were arrested in connection with the case. The operations reportedly involved sourcing genuine Nandini ghee, adulterating it using cheap oils and possible animal fats, and then repackaging it in fake Nandini sachets and bottles for sale across the city.
Seizures and Evidence
During raids on November 14, authorities seized over 8,136 litres of adulterated ghee valued at around ₹57 lakh, along with machinery, plastic bottling equipment, palm and coconut oil used for mixing, five mobile phones, and four Bolero goods vehicles. Assets worth ₹1.26 crore were confiscated. Samples are now undergoing laboratory testing to confirm the presence of animal fat and the nature of adulterants used.
Consumer Safety and Next Steps
The case raises serious food-safety concerns as ghee is a widely consumed product in households. The police investigation continues to trace all links in the supply chain, including those who distributed the fake ghee. KMF has urged consumers to buy only from authorised outlets and has warned of similar operations being active for years. The matter underscores the need for stricter monitoring of dairy products and packaging integrity.
