FDA collects samples of Patanjali cow ghee for laboratory testing

Patanjali Foods Ltd on Tuesday informed that food safety officials have collected samples of certain batches of Patanjali Cow Ghee for laboratory testing, but the company has not received any authenticated report establishing a failure to meet prescribed quality standards.

The communication regarding the identified stock of Patanjali Cow Ghee was issued to and received by the concerned super distributor or food business operator (FBO), and was not addressed directly to the company, it said in a regulatory filing.

Also read: Maharashtra FDA suspends 19 food licences; acts against Patanjali distributor over 'adulteration'

The statement came a day after the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suspended licences of 19 food business operators, including a super distributor of Patanjali Ayurved, and seized food articles worth over Rs 9 crore during a special festive-season drive.

Baba Ramdev-owned Patanjali Foods clarified that neither it nor the concerned FBO had received any authenticated laboratory test report establishing that the samples had failed the prescribed quality parameters as of the date of the disclosure. It also said that the collection of samples for testing, by itself, does not establish adulteration, substandard quality or any violation of applicable food safety standards.

According to the communication available with the company, directions have been issued regarding the identified stock, including restrictions on its sale pending further action.

Patanjali Foods is seeking relevant details and supporting documents from the concerned FBO and regulatory authorities, and is willing to cooperate with the authorities and facilitate independent verification of the concerned batches.

The company reiterated its commitment to product quality, consumer safety and regulatory compliance, adding that it would take appropriate corrective action in accordance with applicable laws if an authenticated laboratory report establishes any deviation from prescribed quality standards.

Patanjali Foods said it was closely monitoring the matter and would make further disclosures to the stock exchanges, upon receipt of material developments or further directions from regulatory authorities.