Expired Sweetness, Fresh Deceit: 10,000 Kg Dates Seized in Kanpur

In a startling crackdown, the Uttar Pradesh Food Department has seized nearly 10,000 kilograms of expired dates in Kanpur, uncovering what officials suspect to be a large-scale relabelling operation. The confiscated stock, estimated to be worth more than ₹50 lakh, had reportedly expired in 2022 but was allegedly being repackaged with fresh stickers showing an extended expiry year of 2026.

According to departmental sources, the action followed a targeted inspection driven by intelligence inputs. During the raid, authorities discovered multiple consignments of dates with visibly altered labels, raising immediate concerns over consumer safety and regulatory violations.

Officials stated that preliminary findings indicate deliberate tampering, with new expiry stickers pasted over original packaging details. Samples have been collected for further analysis, and an investigation is underway to trace the supply chain and identify those responsible.

Food safety authorities emphasized that the sale of expired products, especially through deceptive practices, poses serious health risks. “Strict action will be taken against any entity found violating food safety norms,” a senior official said, adding that legal proceedings are being initiated under relevant provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act. The seizure has sparked concern among local consumers and traders, with calls for tighter monitoring of packaged food items. Authorities have urged citizens to remain vigilant, advising buyers to carefully check product labels and report any suspicious packaging.

As the probe continues, officials are examining whether similar practices may be occurring elsewhere, signaling the possibility of wider enforcement actions across the state.

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