Cuttack: Amid rising cases of food adulteration, Cuttack Municipal Corporation (CMC) along with Malgodown police today carried out a joint raid and busted a fake spice racket in the city besides arresting one person in this connection. The accused trader was identified as Arun Kumar Gantayat. During search at the factory, 20 quintal of fake spices like chilli, turmeric and coriander powder in as many sacks were seized along with rice powder, artificial colours, chemicals and other additives. Official sources informed that the estimated market value of the seized items is around Rs 15-20 lakh.

As per reports, a joint team led by police and officials from the CMC's health wing carried out a raid at the factory in Malgodown after getting specific information about spurious food items being manufactured there. During search, it was found that spices like chilli, turmeric and coriander powders were being adulterated with chemicals, colours and rice powder. Investigation revealed that the accused trader was running this illegal business in the area since a while.

Addressing mediapersons, Zone 1 ACP Arun Kumar Swain confirmed the manufacture of spurious spice mixes at the godown. "The accused trader was running this fake spices manufacturing unit since the last five months and selling the fake items in the wholesale market for the last one or two months.  He will be produced in court today. We are trying to find out places where the accused was supplying these adulterated products and creating awareness about the same. Police is also probing his network and other businessmen connected with him. Investigation is underway," he added.

Meanwhile, health officials of the civic body informed that the seized items have been sent to the laboratory for testing. Stringent action will be taken after the receipt of the report.

The Silver City has been in the news for turning a hub for adulterated products ranging from sauce, ghee, tea, soyabean, gutka and now spices.