Balasore: When it comes to eatables and particularly milk, manufacturers are expected to follow strict quality norms. However, the Balasore plant of Odisha’s largest dairy firm, Omfed is under scanner over unhygienic processes being followed at the unit.
An investigation by OTV revealed that bottling and labelling at Balasore dairy plant are undertaken by workers with bare hands.
Not only milk but also other milk products like curd and ghee are being stored in shabby containers.
"We have faith on the firm but adulteration in any form is a crime. Playing with the health of people is unacceptable. A probe is needed," said a local Omfed consumer, Satya Narayan Das.
Retailers of Omfed products also feel that the products are not the same that they used to be.
"Earlier we were able to store sweet curd (a product of Omfed) for 3-4 days but now it is stale in a day or two," said owner of a Omfed parlour in the district.
However, Balasore dairy plant manager of Omfed, Lingaraj Panda rebuffed the allegations stating that there is no truth in the accusations being made against the plant.
"We always ensure good quality products and never buy ghee from the open market. We supply ghee manufactured in our plant which is of optimum quality," Panda added.
Meanwhile, Charubala Ratha, ADMO (Public Health), Balasore, said, "We are shocked that people are working with bare hands in the plant. If I find any quality norms being flouted at the plant, I will take appropriate action."
https://youtu.be/o6oAfGnOl5Q?t=2