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Bengaluru, July 12, 2025 — Karnataka’s Food Safety and Drug Administration has launched a sweeping crackdown on unsafe drugs and food products, resulting in the suspension of 133 drug licenses and the cancellation of 20 more after a series of rigorous inspections across the state in June. The campaign underscores the government’s commitment to public health and safety amid growing concerns over substandard products in the market.
Authorities conducted 2,544 inspections under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, targeting pharmaceutical outlets, blood centers, and street-food vendors. Drug-testing laboratories in Bengaluru, Hubballi, and Ballari analyzed 1,333 drug samples, with 41 found not meeting quality standards. Enforcement officers responded by filing 81 court cases and recalling or seizing substandard drugs valued at over ₹40 lakh.
The crackdown was not limited to pharmaceuticals. Food safety teams inspected 1,557 street-food vendors statewide, identifying violations at 406 establishments and imposing immediate fines. Special inspection drives at blood centers led to show-cause notices and compliance letters, further reinforcing the administration’s focus on maintaining high safety standards.
Recent months have seen similar actions, including the ban of 15 pharmaceutical and cosmetic products in late June after laboratory tests declared them unsafe for human and veterinary use. Notable among the banned items are Pomol-650 paracetamol tablets and O Shanti Gold Class Kumkum, with authorities urging pharmacies, hospitals, and the public to immediately cease their use and report any remaining stock.
Officials have also introduced new measures to improve recall tracking and raise public awareness, such as developing software for rapid drug recalls and running campaigns against harmful food additives. These efforts have reportedly led to a reduction in unsafe food samples, reflecting the administration’s ongoing vigilance.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on information available as of July 12, 2025, from official statements and media reports. Details regarding enforcement actions, product bans, and ongoing investigations are subject to change as new information emerges. Readers are advised to refer to official notifications and consult relevant authorities for the most current updates on drug and food safety in Karnataka.
