Delhi Police have arrested seven individuals involved in a major scheme to import expired food products from abroad and sell them in India. The operation reportedly targeted high-end grocery stores across the country, selling products from well-known brands including Nescafe, Lays, Oreo, Lipton, Starbucks, and Kewpie.
The Crime Branch of Delhi Police stated that the total value of the fraud amounted to approximately Rs 43 million. Investigations revealed that the scam involved multiple illegal practices, including importing expired food, manipulating expiry dates, repackaging products, and printing fake barcodes. Authorities also uncovered a full-scale adulteration and repackaging facility, complete with a fake barcode printer, which was seized along with other equipment.
The tainted products covered a wide range, including baby food, chocolates, beverages, sauces, and snacks. Reports indicate that the expired goods were imported from the United States, United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates through Mumbai-based wholesalers. These wholesalers reportedly purchased products that were already expired or near expiry, repackaged them, and distributed them across the Indian market for resale.
Police carried out raids in Pahari Dheeraj and Faiz Ganj in Sadar Bazar, a Delhi neighborhood known for its wholesale markets. The raids led to the arrests and the dismantling of the illegal repackaging operation. Authorities emphasized that the facility was being used to conceal the expired status of food products, making them appear fit for sale to consumers.
“This operation exposed a significant network exploiting high-end retail channels to sell unsafe food products,” a police spokesperson said. “The arrested individuals were involved in importing, altering, and distributing expired goods, putting public health at serious risk.”
The arrests come amid growing concerns over food safety and regulatory oversight in India. Consumers are advised to check product expiry dates carefully and report suspicious products to authorities. Investigators are continuing their probe to determine the full extent of the distribution network and identify any additional parties involved.
The case has drawn attention to the methods used by fraudsters in the food industry, including manipulation of packaging and the use of counterfeit barcodes to mask the true condition of products. Authorities say the arrests will help curb similar illegal operations and protect consumers from potentially harmful food items.
