Fake Cumin Made from Broom Sticks Seized in Uttar Pradesh; Major Health Hazard Uncovered
Uttar Pradesh, India:In a shocking revelation that has raised serious concerns over food safety, police in the Indian state of Uttar Pradesh have uncovered a **massive consignment of fake cumin (zeera)**—manufactured using **broom sticks, jaggery, and grass**.
Cumin is a staple spice in every household, adding flavor and aroma to countless dishes. But this recent bust has left many questioning whether the cumin in their kitchen is even real.
According to officials, the counterfeit cumin was produced by **cutting coconut broom fibers into cumin-sized grains**, mixing them with **heated jaggery** to add weight and appearance, and then drying the mixture to mimic the texture and color of authentic cumin seeds. The end product was **visually indistinguishable** from the real spice.
The **criminal gang** behind the operation planned to mix **80% of this fake product with 20% real cumin** and distribute it across various markets in multiple cities. The **seized consignment is worth over ₹6 million** (approximately **20 million Pakistani Rupees**).
Acting on a tip-off, police raided the location, arrested several individuals involved, and filed FIRs against **seven suspects**. However, some culprits managed to flee during the raid. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the operation and identify additional members of the racket.
This disturbing case has highlighted serious lapses in food quality control and sparked fears about **public health risks**, as consumption of such adulterated spices could lead to severe health issues. Authorities have urged citizens to stay vigilant and report suspicious or substandard food products in local markets.
