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Barpeta Road : A major food safety scare has emerged from Assam’s Barpeta Road wholesale vegetable market after authorities seized 15 sacks of pointed gourds, locally known as potol, suspected of being chemically treated to make spoiled vegetables appear fresh before being supplied to markets.
The operation was carried out by the Food Safety Department following allegations that rotten vegetables were allegedly being coated with a green colouring substance and repacked for commercial distribution.
The incident has triggered wider concern in Meghalaya after reports surfaced claiming that some of the vegetable consignments were allegedly meant for Shillong markets.
According to officials, the raid was conducted late at night under the supervision of Food Safety Officer Nazmin Ahmed after videos and complaints linked to the wholesale market began circulating publicly.
During the inspection, authorities seized 15 sacks of suspected potol and collected samples for laboratory examination. Officials said the samples have been sent for testing to determine whether artificial colouring agents or harmful chemicals were used on the vegetables before distribution.
“If the products are found unsafe for consumption, legal action will be taken and the vegetables will be destroyed as per procedure,” a food safety official reportedly said.
Videos circulating online allegedly showed workers applying a green substance to vegetables before repacking them for transport to other markets.
The reports drew sharp attention in Meghalaya after claims emerged that some of the suspected consignments were intended for Shillong and nearby areas.
However, officials have not yet confirmed whether any of the vegetables had already reached Meghalaya markets.
Following the incident, reports said food safety teams have started monitoring vegetable supplies entering Shillong markets, including Ïewduh, as authorities attempt to prevent any suspected stock from entering local circulation.
The incident has once again raised concerns over food adulteration practices and weak monitoring within parts of the wholesale vegetable supply chain in the Northeast region.
Authorities have urged the public not to panic and to wait for the laboratory findings before drawing conclusions.Further investigation into the matter is continuing.