Shillong, June 6, 2026: Food safety officials in Meghalaya have taken swift action to protect consumers by seizing a consignment of pointed gourd (locally known as patol or potol) from a local market in Shillong. The move came after preliminary tests during a routine inspection suggested the possible use of artificial colouring agents.
Details of the Incident
The seizure occurred on Friday, June 5, during surprise checks in the market. Deputy Commissioner of Food Safety, D.B.S. Mukhim, confirmed that officials acted on alerts following reports from neighbouring Assam, where a whistleblower had raised concerns about pointed gourds being treated with artificial colours to enhance their appearance and mask spoilage.
- Quantity involved: Reports indicate that around 15 sacks of pointed gourds were confiscated.
- Samples collected: Officials have lifted samples from the seized consignment and sent them for laboratory analysis to confirm the presence of any unauthorised dyes or harmful contaminants.
- Official statement: “A seizure has been made, and samples have been lifted for analysis. We will wait for laboratory reports before taking further action,” Mukhim told PTI.
Background and Concerns
This incident follows recent reports from Assam highlighting the adulteration of vegetables with synthetic colours. Vendors reportedly apply artificial green dyes to vegetables like pointed gourd, ridge gourd, okra, and beans to make them look fresher and more marketable, even if they are nearing spoilage.
Such practices not only deceive buyers but also pose serious health risks. Unauthorised artificial colours can lead to digestive issues, allergic reactions, and long-term toxicity, particularly affecting children, the elderly, and people with weaker immune systems.
Advice for Consumers
While awaiting lab results, the Food Safety Department urges caution:
- Purchase vegetables from trusted and reliable vendors.
- Choose produce based on natural texture, firmness, and smell rather than unnaturally vibrant colours.
- Wash all vegetables thoroughly under running water before cooking or consuming.
- Report any suspicions of adulteration to local food safety authorities.
This proactive step by Meghalaya officials underscores the growing emphasis on food safety in the Northeast region. It serves as an important reminder for both traders and consumers to prioritise quality and health over superficial appeal in daily markets.
Lab reports are expected soon, and further enforcement actions will follow based on the findings. The department continues to conduct random inspections to ensure the safety of vegetables entering the state markets.
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